For over four decades, and more frequently in recent years, builders throughout the world have been working hard to develop sustainable construction methods that can be utilized in varying climates. Sustainable construction refers to building methods that prioritize the protection of the natural environment while simultaneously providing a healthy, non-toxic environment for those using the structure.
Elements that are often present in sustainable construction methods include a focus on using recyclable and renewable resources and reducing energy consumption and waste. These elements may be present during the design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and deconstruction phases of a building’s life cycle.
Specific sustainable construction techniques vary by region, due to differences in climate, availability of resources, political will, citizens’ needs, economic strength, and more. As Australia’s already hot and humid climate becomes hotter which is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. It is experiencing more extended and more severe fire seasons and more extreme heat.
If you are interested in building in Australia in an environmentally-sensitive manner, consider adapting your building methods to include one or more of the following for a sustainable future:
Use Sustainable Construction Materials
Selecting sustainable building materials is a vital part of any ‘green’ construction project design. Over half of all construction waste produced annually is due to concrete. Instead of concrete, choose more sustainable building materials like bamboo, 100 per cent recycled plastic, and concrete made from hemp fibre.
Although the initial cost for these materials may be higher, buildings made from them have been shown to last decades longer than concrete or wood structures.
Implement Just-In-Time Production
Just-In-Time (JIT) production is defined as the production of supplies on an on-demand basis. As a builder, instead of ordering large amounts of what you think you might need, you order what you need and in the right amount taking into consideration the innovations for a sustainable future. This method leads to less waste, reduced storage needs, and cost savings.
Choose a Bioclimatic Design
The indoor climate of a structure is important for health, comfort, and productivity. Conditions such as temperature, humidity, and ventilation impact the quality of the experience of people inside of the structure. Consider using solar, wind, and other natural energy sources to cool, heat and light your structure. You can also select materials for windows, walls, and floors that are energy efficient.
Use Prefabricated Construction Materials
To boost efficiency and environmental sustainability, prefabricate structures, or parts of structures, in an offsite location and transport them to the construction site. Modular construction is more energy efficient to produce and can be recycled or repurposed in the future.
Reduce Construction Waste
An important consideration in sustainable building practises seeking opportunities to reduce construction waste. Many contractors use haulers to remove construction site waste and separate materials, which enables more construction byproducts to be reused or recycled instead of sent to landfills. Also, some construction waste can be creatively repurposed on the job site.
Go Digital to Reduce Waste
Construction waste includes significant paper waste, with printing plans and files repeatedly throughout the lifespan of the project. Going digital increases efficiency and reduces waste.
In the past year, Australia has also experienced widespread flood damage, in addition to widespread fires. Companies and individuals seeking to build in Australia must be mindful of the country’s existing environmental hazards, as well as the importance of not contributing to the environmental degradation that has led to this unfortunate situation.