Building practices have significantly changed as we become more and more aware of how past practices have impacted the environment and depleted resources. More companies are making responsible decisions to go green with their construction operations and lowering their environmental footprint.
Sustainable building practices are designed to achieve lower environmental footprints during the construction and lifetime of the building. Buildings are responsible for a lot of the planets energy waste and energy use. Past building practices focused on community growth and development over environmental impact.
Through mainstream media, social media and people voices there is increasing awareness of the importance of greener, sustainable building practices. These endeavours have become increasingly important to the consumer. The message: Those that choose to invest in contractors that utilise greener practices are making positive impacts for our planet, future and health.
Construction sustainability isn’t just beneficial for the environment, it also supports the well-being of individuals and communities. The six benefits of adopting the green initiative in the building industry include:
- Healthier Living
Our surroundings significantly impact our physical, mental and emotional health. Sustainable architecture has addressed the effects occupants face by addressing energy resources, thermal and ergonomic features and air quality to improve the health and stress levels and overall quality of life.
- Waste Reduction
Pollution and the depletion of our natural resources has ultimately impacted the planet and resulted in global warming and climate change. Construction firms are now starting to rely more and more on renewable resources and methods to minimise the effects of climate change and promote a cleaner environment.
- Economy Boost
The green initiative movement is creating more jobs. As more and more people adopt greener building solutions, the demand for more people to fill these roles is increasing.
- Cost Efficiency
Lower future maintenance costs specifically with engineered designs reduces future consumption bills. Reduced maintenance and operational costs mean huge savings for the owner/occupiers. While initial building costs may be higher than non-traditional non-renewable methods, down the track these layouts save corporate and building owners.
- Material Cost Decreases
Sustainable building methods implement eco-friendly materials without compromising quality or structural integrity. Many of the materials sources are recycled and reused. These materials have proven to be reliable and durable as non-renewable items. Green building source materials that are favourable to the environment, individuals and communities.
- Carbon Footprint Reduction
Green initiatives are reducing carbon emissions. The demand for more sustainable and economical solutions has significantly grown due to the effects of global warming. The construction industry has in the past caused damages to the environment. These days resolving this situation is a priority for many construction firms and key decisions makers. The goal: Minimise the consumption of raw materials and natural resources and reduce their carbon footprints. To meet these initiatives many construction firms are adopting GBCA and Greener Spaces Better Places initiatives towards designing, renovating and building structures.
The importance of environmental awareness has increased as the concern for global warming has increased. Greener practices from all businesses are now top concerns for consumers. They want to ensure that they’re leaving the smallest environmental footprint possible. Contractors and constructions companies have realised this and now adopt these green principles in their construction. They utilise sustainable resources and environmentally friendly business practices to ensure the smallest impact on the environment as possible.