Strategies for social impact and sustainability in the construction industry

The construction industry is a significant contributor to environmental challenges and we can no longer view infrastructure and buildings as mere physical structures separate from their impact on society. The United Nations Environment Programme reports that construction activities are responsible for nearly 37% of global carbon emissions, consuming vast amounts of raw materials and energy. The industry is witnessing a shift with sustainability being a necessity for our planet and communities.

Environmental, social and governance (ESG) in construction considers environmental impact, social responsibility, economic viability and long-term community benefits. These considerations affect how we design, construct and operate built environments. Climate crisis awareness, changing consumer expectations and economic incentives are driving the construction sector toward more responsible practices. By adopting innovative approaches and making conscious efforts, construction businesses can work toward a sustainable future. Below are the strategies that demonstrate that sustainability in construction is not a distant ideal, but an achievable goal:

1. Prioritizing eco-friendly materials and methods

The choice of materials and techniques is crucial to sustainable building practices and businesses can make conscious choices to minimize their environmental footprints. Traditional construction materials, which have significantly contributed to global carbon emissions, are now being replaced and reimagined through innovative solutions.

• Groundbreaking sustainable materials are being developed. These materials not only reduce environmental impact but also contribute to ecological restoration. For instance, bamboo is a renewable, strong and carbon-efficient material that is being utilized to provide long-lasting structures. Grown from fungal networks, mycelium-based building materials are biodegradable. Similarly, locally sourced materials with minimal processing can also contribute to reducing transportation emissions.
• Recycled and upcycled materials are becoming mainstream in construction projects. Significant amounts of energy and resources are required to produce materials from scratch. Making use of recycled steel reduces mining impact and reclaiming wood prevents deforestation and reduces waste.
• Prefabrication and modular construction are other significant advancements in promoting sustainability in the construction industry. Prefabrication and modular techniques promote building components or modular units off-site and then transporting and assembling them wherever required. These methods reduce on-site waste and minimize construction time.