What is sustainable construction?

Put simply, sustainable construction is a means by which to reduce energy consumption and waste when building new structures by utilising renewable energy solutions, as well as other greener solutions; from right-sizing to greener fuels. 

Geared towards fighting climate change, as well as reducing the constructions sector’s impact on the environment, sustainable construction is the greatest tool at companies’ disposal in striving to meet emissions targets. 

And it really is that simple. 

A common misconception in the construction industry is that the pivot to sustainable construction methods is both laborious and expensive – but neither of these statements rings true.

In fact – as Sir Robert McAlpine discovered during a test with Aggreko – not only does harnessing sustainable construction methods drastically lower carbon emissions, but it also reduces operating costs.

For example, a practical method of improving sustainability in the construction industry is a practice known as ‘right-sizing’ – the selection of appropriately sized generators for a specific task. And so, in choosing the right sized generator for a project, both operating costs and fuel consumption are reduced.

Moreover, if, as in the Sir Robert McAlpine example, a project harnesses right sizing and greener fuels (such as our HVO drop-in fuel), the carbon footprint of a project becomes even lower. 

Why sustainable construction is important

In 2019, the UK’s construction industry contributed 10% to national emissions. Moreover, recent figures indicate that the construction industry accounts for 36% of global energy usage and 40% of CO2 emissions. 

And while those numbers are significant, sustainability and emissions goals are targeted at drastically reducing them in a historically short timeframe. 

And sustainable construction sits at the heart of that strategy. 

Indeed, as Aggreko has witnessed firsthand in our partnership with Morgan Sindall, greener solutions can have an incredible impact on decarbonisation.

For example, innovative technologies such as battery-equipped hybrid generators offer a staggering 75% reduction in fuel consumption, as well as a 25% reduction in NOx emissions offered by HVO drop-in fuel. 

As the population continues to grow, so too will construction projects, and, as such, it’s vital that companies have a sustainable construction plan in mind. 

Benefits of sustainable construction

From a positive impact on the environment to reduced margins, sustainable construction poses a variety of benefits. 

Environmental impact

Of course, every project must strive toward sustainability targets and emissions goals; and sustainable construction is a powerful tool in hitting those targets. And it’s the environment that reaps the rewards. Lower emissions mean a cleaner, greener world for all. 

Overheads

And, to dispel a myth, sustainable construction also offers a positive financial impact. 
For example, taking advantage of innovations such as battery storage and remote monitoring can ensure that a project remains highly efficient whilst lowering costs. 

Reputation

The migration to sustainable construction practices is a one-way road. And as projects must observe sustainability targets, it pays to be ahead of the curve, rather than playing catch up.

For example, at Aggreko, we’re constantly striving to innovate, and our greener upgrades have not only aided us in lowering our carbon footprint but have led to fantastic partnerships as we work within the sector to help deliver on sustainable construction methods. 

Sustainable construction: progress for all

The importance of sustainability in the construction industry cannot be overstated. And the benefits of striving to meet and, ideally, exceed sustainability targets, can be felt by everyone. 

Indeed, sustainable construction methods are already shifting the balance of carbon emissions, and, as more projects are run using sustainable means, that growth will only continue.

It won’t be an overnight change. But it will be change. And factoring sustainable construction practices into your project means you’ll be part of spearheading that change. 

Sustainable construction with Aggreko

At Aggreko, we’re passionate about ensuring sustainability targets are met; and we’ve developed numerous innovative technologies to assist in that push. Contact us to discover more about how we could help you strive for sustainability in the construction sector.