Infocus

Simple and Affordable Eco-construction Techniques  

by M. Wasim
Conctruction

Ensuring the safety of environment from degradation and perils of climate change, there are many reasons for construction companies and developers to adopt sustainable values. Rapid population growth demands that we address issues of sustainability and resourcefulness sooner rather than later.

The ways and strategies mentioned in this write-up identifies the negative impact that traditional and conventional construction practices have on our environment, and provides alternative solutions. These eco-construction practices ensure longevity and cost effectiveness of the project.

Keep Recycling Water in Mind

Conservation of water is a very important element of sustainable construction, be it a residential, industrial or commercial. Recycling water takes advantage of resources that are readily available, which would otherwise go down the drain. Like recycled rain water can be used for things like landscape irrigation Eco-friendly techniques smartly utilizes rain water collection systems, if collected and stored. Similarly, water condensation from AC units can also be collected and used for similar reasons. All these strategies are often simple and can be implemented into any kind of construction project.

Harness Alternative Energy

With soaring energy costs, investing in solar or wind power presents a long-term sustainable solution. Not only will this be a cost-saving measure in the future, but reduces your grid reliance and lessens the strain on electricity providers. Solar panels transform roofs of homes and buildings into generators that help to keep power and electricity flowing. While turbine farms of all sizes can be used to help produce energy for any given building. The interior of a building can also be benefitted from alternative energy, maintaining indoor air quality and reducing utility investments. Besides, photovoltaic window panel is another nice invention that adjust transparency and help to control interior temperatures.

Improve Demolition Practices

The essential aspect of eco construction is improvement in demolition practice. Rather than dumping more materials like concrete and structural steel into landfills, these can be recycled for other construction jobs. Industrial crushing facilities recycle these materials into dry aggregate for new construction. Even carpet, flooring and ceiling materials can be reused in a variety of ways, which means a substantial savings opportunity. By using recycled and sustainable materials, construction companies will be able to avoid additional costs associated with the disposal of toxic materials from the site.

Improve Overall Health and Safety

Sustainable construction mainly involves the use of environmentally friendly materials like non-toxic paints, solvents and building products. Not only that makes the project eco-friendly, it creates healthy indoor spaces in homes, offices, and recreational areas. Some of the toxic paints and solvents used in conventional construction can cause respiratory complications, skin conditions, migraines and other health issues. Using eco-friendly materials may prove to be a long-term benefit for all.

Environmentally Friendly Insulation Materials

Conventional buildings use insulation materials that contain toxic chemicals such as petrochemicals and toxic adhesives. Sustainable construction presents a range of safe, natural and readily available materials. Some of these materials like sheep’s wool, recycled cotton and wood fiber are more affordable and sustainable material that can be used as insulation.

 Plan for Increased Green and Multiuse Space

 With space in cities increasingly limited, planning for more green space and multipurpose areas may be an area of consideration for at land developers, architects and designers. Rather than simply building a commercial area, perhaps applying a multipurpose and mixed-use approach may be beneficial. Besides in high-rise structures encourage the addition of green spaces on rooftops or in other parts of a building. That would only provide a multiuse of space but also helps to improve the air quality in any given building.

By

Editorial, Infocus

(Specially Written for World Environment Day)

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