According to new research from the construction blog Bimhow, the construction sector contributes to 23% of air pollution, 50% of climate change, 40% of drinking water pollution and 50% of waste from landfills. Have you ever heard the saying, “Everyone acts as if nothing will change, but everything changes”? It couldn't be more true when it comes to construction and its approach to ecology. Some try to pretend that the climate isn't changing and that their businesses aren't having an impact on the environment. In reality, the construction sector contributes to 23% of air pollution, 40% of drinking water pollution and 50% of landfill waste.
These numbers are alarming. To really understand this topic, we need to go a little deeper into the details. How exactly does our company affect the environment? Is there anything we can do about it?. According to some studies, construction is responsible for up to 50% of climate change.
It also affects landfills and air, water and noise pollution. However, the industry seeks to make positive changes in the ways of working, the materials used and production, in order to minimize the negative effects of construction and protect the environment for future generations. Another environmental impact of construction is water pollution. Construction demolition debris impacts local water.
Toxic chemicals, cement, adhesives, paint, sand waste, and oil reach local water sources, such as lakes, rivers, dams and reservoirs. Plants, animals and humans interact with and ingest these contaminated bodies of water, causing health problems such as cancer. In addition, construction companies that carry out mining projects to extract raw materials pollute the water. Soil exposed to water pollution poses a threat to the plant and animal ecosystem due to soil.
Water pollution also affects construction projects because they require tons of clean water. Construction companies must design measures to reduce water pollution in the environment. Jen is a passionate environmentalist and sustainability expert. With a degree in science from Babcock University, Jen loves to apply her research skills to create editorial articles that connect with our readers and creators of global change, focusing on topics such as zero waste, sustainability, climate change and biodiversity.
During the construction phase of a project, waste management is considered to be the main environmental impact, however, there are many other environmental issues during construction that need to be considered and addressed. The SafetyStratus Research Advisory Group (RAG) brings together opinion leaders from the global environmental, health and safety community to promote best practices and provide key information about the profession and the industries they serve. PVC is a chlorine-based plastic and its manufacture can cause large amounts of chlorine to enter the environment. It is crucial that project managers, environmental health and safety officers, and site managers understand how construction projects impact the environment, as well as how these impacts can be mitigated and reduced.
Despite the encouraging signs, Joyce Msuya, Deputy Executive Director of UN Environment, says that more needs to be done. Any proposed construction work that could affect a natural environment will be examined by an ecologist to ensure that it does not adversely affect flora and fauna or endanger species. We show the many rewarding opportunities available and help people from all backgrounds to enter an exciting and growing industry that has an enormous impact on UK housing, industry and infrastructure. Even though many construction projects are labeled as “green projects”, the impacts of construction on the environment must always be considered throughout the life of the construction project.
Environmental consultants work on construction projects to ensure that they comply with environmental regulations and keep air or water and soil pollution to a minimum. The United States Environmental Protection Agency recognizes the harmful effects of CCA on human health,8 but still allows its use. It is important that construction water comes from a non-drinkable source, such as a nearby water treatment plant or authorized wells, to reduce environmental impact. Buildings are built to last, so it's important that they're as efficient as possible while they're standing and have an impact on the environment.
Go Construct provides resources for anyone looking for a career in the construction and built environment sector. .
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