We’re in a time of fast-paced growth and expansion. Look around and you’ll see townhouses, neighborhoods, and apartment complexes springing up all over the country. But it’s not just limited to residential spaces. Small towns are being revitalized with new buildings and attractions, and cities are constantly under construction as they grow and evolve to sustain an ever-increasing number of people.

With all of these projects underway, it’s critical that we enforce sustainable construction practices. But what is sustainable construction? This refers to the process by which construction companies and their employees dedicate themselves to reducing waste, increasing build quality, and “going green” whenever possible. Let’s take a look at some practical tips that fall under these general categories:

• Reduce Waste. The amount of material that goes to the landfill annually is astronomical. The construction industry contributes to roughly half of that number. While suburbs and rural neighborhoods have joined the mission to recycle with dedicated bins and citywide removal programs, construction companies are not so fortunate. It takes a little more planning and effort on their part (sorting, segregating, hauling, etc.) One way to move toward sustainable construction is to reduce your carbon footprint and recycle when possible.
• Equipment, Materials, & Efficiency. Ensure that workers have access to high-quality tools and materials. This will ensure that they do not break or wear out prematurely. While cheaper tools and materials may seem like a better idea, consider the long-term impact of purchasing replacements. Those costs can add up very fast. Not only should workers work with quality, but they should work with efficiency. That means saving power not in use and conserving energy to complete jobs within a shorter timeframe.
• Source Locally. Find a local supplier for all your materials, tools, and manual labor. Not only does it bolster the local economy and help small businesses, but it reduces the overall environmental impact by cutting down on fuel and packaging.
• Train Your Workers. While these tips will set you on the path to sustainable construction, they will do little good if your workers are not aware of these best practices as well. Before starting a job, make sure that the crew is aware of your values and is striving to meet your expectations. Coach them in efficiency, quality, and waste-management procedures.

Follow these tips to get a head start on sustainable construction. Not only will you be helping to protect the environment, but you may find that you accomplish your jobs faster and with greater accuracy. For more info on environmental issues and general best practices, follow the IES Neptune blog.