Impact of green construction on the environment
In addition to being noisy and dusty, construction projects also have a large environmental footprint, and this is what green construction aims to repair. Green builders look at the entire construction process, from the supply of materials to the energy consumption of the building, and try to build the most environmentally friendly structures possible. The main factors considered by green builders are the materials themselves, indoor air quality and waste, both on site and in the completed structure. Many green builders also take into account the lives of the inhabitants of these buildings, which facilitates access to public transport and green spaces.
The green construction sector has existed since the beginning of the last century. But it really didn’t take hold until the late 1970s, when rising oil prices caused people to think twice before relying so heavily on fossil fuels. Companies do the bare minimum to qualify. Proponents of green construction criticize the system by stating that many builders add “green” accessories (such as a solar panel) to otherwise unusable buildings.
Buildings account for nearly 70% of US electricity consumption and 12% of our water consumption, and much of green construction reduces that number. Instead of a conventional gas or electric water heater, a green builder could install a solar water heater that uses the sun’s energy to heat the building’s water. Green builders also strengthen the insulation of a building, so you won’t have to use as much heat or air conditioning to keep the temperature inside. These types of upgrades reduce the building’s environmental impact and benefit residents by reducing their energy bills. Glen Meyers, editor-in-chief of the Green Building Elements website, says this is why improving energy efficiency is the most common green building technique.
Written by Dago Guy Charles at the international department
ALLURE MAISON & JARDIN SAS
www.alluremaisonetjardin.fr
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