Top 10 considerations for construction to achieve net zero

There are many ways in which the construction industry can have a negative impact on the environment, from destroying ecosystems to materials waste, air pollution, and CO2 emissions. 

In fact, the construction industry is directly responsible for 40% of CO2 emissions and indirectly responsible for 25% of all greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, most of which come from Scope 3 suppliers and operating the built environment.  

If the industry is to stay on track to achieving net zero targets, it will need to keep in mind the below considerations to drive sustainable and green construction. 

Energy efficiency

By adopting green building methods, construction can focus on driving energy efficiency within their projects. By harnessing such methods projects will not only use less energy during construction and result in an energy-efficient structure. Ways in which construction can improve efficiency include site alignment, building layout, insulation, and exterior material colour. 

Waste reduction 

A key way that construction can be more sustainable includes the adoption of a more circular economy. Reducing leftover supplies, avoiding demolition, using recycled materials, and using fewer finishes all contribute to overall waste reduction and a circular economy. 

Low-impact materials 

Construction should not only consider their waste but the waste of their suppliers too. Using low-impact materials that generate less waste during manufacturing can also help to reduce the environmental footprint of the project. 

Protect indoor air quality

Developing a healthier environment for those using the building should also be considered when looking to be more sustainable. Protecting indoor air quality through careful selection of materials to reduce the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is one way that a healthier environment can be achieved.

Smart siting

By being smart with site placement and preparation, construction companies can minimise the impact their site has, reducing erosion and water damage to the foundations. Construction can also reduce their energy use by harnessing natural light, as well as passive heating and cooling opportunities. 

Other ways that organisations can be more sustainable on-site include saving trees on-site enriching the local environment and keeping buildings cooler. 

Limit water use

Through the use of green building techniques, construction companies can minimise their water waste and control excess water outside the building. Currently construction accounts for the largest share of global freshwater consumption - 14% for the US alone. 

Go green internally

Being clean and sustainable should not just be limited to the site, sustainable practices should also be implemented in the office too. Construction companies should - if they haven’t already - switch to paperless filling systems, use energy-efficient lighting, use low-flow water fixtures, and maximise ‘reduce, reuse, and recycle’ opportunities. 

Keep up to date

Green construction best practices are constantly evolving, to ensure that construction stays on track to achieving net zero targets, companies must keep up with both local and global developments, techniques, and initiatives. 

Choose a rating system

One way organisations can keep up to date with best practices, developments and initiatives is to choose a rating system which sets internationally recognised standards for sustainability and environmental performance. It can also help those new to green construction gain a better understanding of requirements. 

Invest in training

The only way to truly incorporate sustainability into construction is through education and training. It is important to ensure that all workers recieve comprehensive training to understand and then be able to act on the latest green construction methods and requirements.