Green Technology in Construction
The demand for green, clean technology has become forefront in the construction trades as focus on the environment has trickled down to even the smallest decisions. New green technologies can be applied from the very beginning design and siting process to the finishing touches of construction, satisfying the client's needs and using resources more efficiently.
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Energy Reduction and Efficiency
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According to the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, buildings represent 40 percent of primary energy use globally. This number includes the energy used to produce construction materials such as steel, cement, aluminum and glass, among others. Using reclaimed, sustainable materials reduces the amount of energy used in building. Some examples of reclaimed materials are recovered hardwood, stone and cement blocks, and recycled glass material. Natural flooring such as bamboo and cork, and insulation made from foam and recycled denim can be used throughout the construction process.
Water
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Installing rain gardens to prevent soil erosion, natural landscaping, and water-efficient fixtures such as low flow toilets, shower heads, and sinks in buildings can reduce the impact of water usage in green construction. Bob Vila suggests using new water conservation systems that reuse "gray" water that has been used to wash clothes and dishes to irrigate the yard.
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Waste
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An enormous amount of waste is created during the construction process. Recycling waste materials immediately impacts the amount of waste your building project contributes to landfills. Incorporating recycling centers into the building design as well as recycling during the construction process helps to reduce costly waste. Reusing materials from projects within the building construction in other parts of the building can not only reduce costs but reduce waste generated.
Indoor Environmental Quality
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Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are a source of concern for environmentalists. Reducing VOCs from the indoor air is important for a variety of health reasons. Choosing natural materials that emit low amounts of VOCs improves air quality and can prevent a variety of health issues according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
LEED Certification
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When you plan your green construction project, whether a new build or retrofit, consider pursuing LEED certification. According to the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED certification is a third-party certification program that gives building owners a way to measure the environmental impact of their building. Achieving LEED certification is an outward expression to your community that you are environmentally conscious and have built a high-quality low-environmental-impact building.
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References
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- Photo Credit Hard working construction worker at a construction scene. image by Andy Dean from Fotolia.com
