A recent shift in strategy from global infrastructure firm AECOM underscores the growing importance of sustainable construction practices.
AECOM is ramping up its climate adaptation and cleanup initiatives, expecting significant growth in these sectors. CEO Troy Rudd noted during a May earnings call that the complexity and size of construction projects have surged, with a tenfold increase in multibillion-dollar projects in the U.S. over the past decade. This evolution highlights the urgent need for sustainable practices in an era marked by environmental challenges, resource scarcity, and the demand for resilient infrastructure.
The Imperative of Sustainable Construction
The construction sector is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for approximately 39% of energy-related carbon emissions. As such, the transition to sustainable construction is not just an option but a necessity. This involves using environmentally friendly materials, reducing waste, and minimizing energy consumption throughout a building's lifecycle.
With AECOM's backlog reaching a record $23.7 billion, the company's commitment to sustainability is evident. Investments in sustainable infrastructure are projected to grow, driven by factors such as federal funding from initiatives like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and increasing client demand for environmentally resilient solutions.
Key Drivers of Change
Several factors are pushing the construction industry toward sustainable practices:
- Regulatory Pressures: New environmental regulations, such as the recent EPA designation of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) as hazardous, are forcing construction firms to adopt cleaner technologies and practices.
- Client Demand: As clients become more aware of sustainability, they are increasingly seeking firms that can deliver environmentally friendly solutions.
- Technological Advancements: Innovations in materials and construction techniques are enabling more sustainable building practices. From recycled materials to energy-efficient technologies, these advancements reduce the environmental impact of construction projects.
Sustainable Materials and Design
The choice of materials plays a crucial role in sustainable construction. Traditional building materials like concrete and steel have high carbon footprints, prompting the industry to explore alternatives. Sustainable materials such as bamboo, recycled plastics, and engineered wood products offer lower environmental impacts while maintaining structural integrity.
Moreover, the design process itself is evolving. The principles of sustainable design emphasize not only energy efficiency but also water conservation, indoor environmental quality, and the use of renewable energy sources.
Lifecycle Considerations
Sustainable construction goes beyond initial material selection and design; it encompasses the entire lifecycle of a building, from construction to demolition. Lifecycle assessment (LCA) is a critical tool that evaluates the environmental impact of a building at every stage. By understanding the long-term implications of construction choices, firms can make informed decisions that enhance sustainability.
Community and Economic Benefits
Sustainable construction practices yield numerous benefits beyond environmental protection. They can enhance community resilience, improve public health, and drive economic growth. By investing in green infrastructure, municipalities can create jobs while addressing pressing environmental challenges.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Despite the momentum toward sustainable construction, several challenges remain. The industry faces a labor shortage, making it difficult to find skilled workers trained in sustainable practices. Additionally, the upfront costs of sustainable materials and technologies can deter some clients from adopting these practices.
However, the potential for growth in the sustainable construction market is significant. As AECOM has identified, investments in infrastructure that enhance sustainability and resilience are likely to grow for years to come. The integration of sustainable practices into mainstream construction will not only mitigate environmental impacts but also position firms to thrive in an evolving market.
The Role of Collaboration
Collaboration is essential for advancing sustainable construction practices. Public-private partnerships can facilitate funding for large-scale projects, while interdisciplinary teams can leverage diverse expertise to solve complex challenges.
Furthermore, stakeholder engagement is crucial. Engaging communities in the planning process ensures that projects meet local needs while garnering public support. By incorporating input from diverse groups, construction firms can enhance the social sustainability of their projects.
The future of construction lies in its ability to adapt to changing environmental realities.
With the growing recognition of the need for sustainable practices, the construction industry stands at a crossroads. By embracing sustainability as a core value, firms can not only respond to regulatory demands and client expectations but also contribute to a healthier planet and society.
GPRS Services Support Sustainable Construction
Sustainable construction is more than a trend; it is an essential response to the pressing challenges posed by climate change, resource scarcity, and environmental degradation.
GPRS supports sustainable construction projects through our comprehensive suite of subsurface damage prevention, existing conditions documentation, and construction & facilities project management services.
Utilizing state-of-the-art technology and industry-leading practices, we Intelligently Visualize The Built World® to keep your projects on time, on budget, and safe.
What can we help you visualize?
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of informational output do I get when I hire GPRS to conduct a utility locate?
Our Project Managers flag and paint our findings directly on the surface. This method of communication is the most accurate form of marking when excavation is expected to commence within a few days of service.
GPRS also uses a global positioning system (GPS) to collect data points of findings. We use this data to generate a plan, KMZ file, satellite overlay, or CAD file to permanently preserve results for future use. GPRS does not provide land surveying services. If you need land surveying services, please contact a professional land surveyor. Please contact us to discuss the pricing and marking options your project may require.
What are the Benefits of Underground Utility Mapping?
Having an updated and accurate map of your subsurface infrastructure reduces accidents, budget overruns, change orders, and project downtime caused by dangerous and costly subsurface damage.
How does SiteMap® assist with Utility Mapping?
SiteMap® (patent pending), powered by GPRS, is the industry-leading infrastructure management program. It is a single source of truth, housing the 99.8%+ accurate utility locating, concrete scanning, video pipe inspection, leak detection, and 3D laser scanning data our Project Managers collect on your job site. And the best part is you get a complimentary SiteMap® Personal Subscription when GPRS performs a utility locate for you.
