Conservation Planning for Construction Sites

New build sites have to take the environment into consideration.

Many consumers have become concerned over the impact humans have on the environment. Going "green" has become a key concern for businesses as well. Energy and automobile companies as well as the construction industry continues to search for ways to lower their impact on the environment while remaining profitable. New buildings are still required, but now they have often are built and operated with environmental concerns in mind.

Conservation Areas

The governments of many countries have designated several areas as conservation sites which limit or even prohibit new building on the land. This can include designations such as green and brown belt lands which require special permits for building projects.

Environmental Impact Assessment

Every new building project has to complete an environmental impact assessment. This is a report which includes all relevant information about the effects of the project on the ecosystem and infrastructure. This is more of an issue for new builds where ecosystems will be destroyed, for example if trees have to be cut down and streams and rivers diverted.

Energy Efficiency

As both a cost-saving and carbon-reducing measure, new buildings and facilities will be fitted with the latest in energy-efficient systems. This includes the standard fixtures such as insulation, boilers, air conditioning systems and lighting. Features like double glazing, cavity walls and other features have long been used in the construction industry.

Alternative Energy

Further measures to reduce environmental impact and boost the environmental credentials of new buildings are also included. Green builders utilize solar panels on roofs so the building generates its own electricity supply. This tactic depends on where the building will be located.

Water Conservation

Many buildings use gray water, or waste-water, systems. This is where water is funneled back into the heating and air conditioning systems rather than going into the sewer. This means water that would otherwise have gone down the basin to a water-treatment plant will now be recycled to flush the toilet.

Materials

Using recycled materials is also a good way for construction to reduce its impact on the environment. This material is not normally used to build the structure, but old masonry is used in the foundations; recycled gypsum is used for drywall material; and insulation and rubber reused for carpet backing.

Greenery

Trees and grass areas can be added to construction projects to add to the ecosystem in urban environments. This is not always, practical when space is at a premium, so modern architects commonly install green roofs, where the roof of the building is essentially turned into a garden.

LEED Certification

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification is a key goal for construction companies and architects. The status is awarded to any building meeting certain conservation and environmental standards.

References

• Environmental Protection Agency: Using Recycled Industrial Materials in Buildings
• Environmental Protection Agency: Measuring Construction Industry Environmental Performance
• Miga: Environmental Impact Assessment Report on Construction Projects
• Green Building Solutions: Environmental Issues in Construction