Commercial buildings are often large and can consume a lot of energy, adding to a business’s carbon footprint and harming the environment. Many companies are looking to adopt environmentally friendly practices, and moving into an inefficient building can significantly reduce their efforts.

Construction companies need to bring the future to the present by prioritizing the environment and sustainability when taking on projects. Eco-friendly construction crews help the environment and can generate more business with positive goals like these. There are plenty of ways construction crews are adapting their techniques to prioritize the environment.

Eco-Friendly Materials

One of the most important and direct ways to adopt sustainable practices as a construction crew is through the use of eco-friendly materials. Repurposed, natural, renewable, or recyclable materials can reduce resource waste, contribute less to landfills, and keep buildings safe for the environment and their occupants. Repurposed or sustainably sourced timber (especially bamboo), natural rubber, stone, brick, clay, and organic metals all fit eco-friendly material categories.

All materials should be sustainably sourced, meaning they are produced using eco-friendly practices. For example, sustainably sourced lumber comes from companies that prioritize forest regrowth and tree biodiversity. Not only are these construction materials great for the environment, but they’re also durable and high-quality. Many construction crews already utilize these materials.

Energy-Efficient Construction Methods

Construction crews are implementing energy efficiency directly into their methods. Including proper, high-quality insulation approaches, such as rigid foam insulation, can help regulate a building’s temperature, reducing the need for excessive HVAC use. LED bulbs, energy-efficient lighting, and well-installed, sealed windows for natural light can reduce the amount of energy needed to light even the largest buildings. Providing high-performance HVAC systems that prioritize energy efficiency, including thermostats with scheduling capabilities, will massively reduce energy consumption as well. All of these construction practices combined can help commercial buildings minimize carbon footprints.

Utilizing Renewable Energy

Construction companies can outfit a building with renewable energy in mind. Solar panels, wind turbines, or geothermal heaters can be installed directly onto buildings or on the property to make sourcing renewable energy easier than ever. Solar panel shingles or wind turbine roofs are some of the many ways construction crews are integrating clean energy into their projects.

To top it all off, energy-efficient HVAC systems and appliances can help manage this clean source of energy much easier so commercial buildings never run out of power.

Electric Construction Vehicles

The rise of electric vehicles has spread to the construction industry as well. Electric bulldozers are becoming more popular, and eco-friendly crews are taking advantage by switching to rechargeable electric equipment and vehicles whenever possible. Electric trucks and vans can transport materials and crews to job sites. Electric bulldozers, cranes, and rechargeable power tools can get work done without polluting the air with fossil fuels and carbon emissions. While electric construction equipment can still be a hefty investment, they pay off in time with less gas and positive branding.

Sustainable Waste Management

Construction sites generate a lot of waste. Instead of hauling everything to the dumpster, construction companies are paying more attention to what is being tossed. More recycling dumpsters are being brought to job sites. Natural, non-toxic substances are favored whenever possible. Hazardous materials are disposed of appropriately and safely. Waste is being reduced by adopting reusable equipment instead of single-use. Sustainability isn’t just reserved for the building itself; the job site and crew must utilize green practices as well.

Water Conservation

Construction crews often use water to clean sites, mix concrete, and outfit a building with plumbing. By using recycled water, crews can reduce the amount of water waste they contribute. Installing low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting systems, and greywater recycling into building projects can greatly improve conservation practices. As a result, tenants or occupants can enjoy lower water utility costs.

Construction Management Technology

Advanced technology has helped many industries adopt more efficient practices, including construction crews. Digital project management minimizes carbon emissions by reducing site travel and streamlining the development and planning stages. Projects can be managed quickly or even remotely. Virtual reality can make construction processes easier, safer, and more efficient. Crews can be distributed more efficiently to reduce wasted time or resources. Urban planning software can help crews and developers choose the ideal location to preserve natural ecosystems. There are tons of ways technology has changed the construction industry’s carbon footprint.

Conclusion

Eco-friendly buildings and efficient construction processes improve the safety, health, and well-being of the world. By harnessing technology and sustainably sourced materials, construction

crews can adopt the best practices to reduce carbon emissions, preserve local ecosystems, and avoid polluting the environment. Construction companies that harness eco-friendly alternatives are not just making an ethical choice but a strategic one to improve their business and the world.