Innovative Concrete Solutions For Sustainable Building

As we’re seeing the world shift towards more sustainable practices and ethical considerations, one of the top industries to take note of is the construction industry. Construction and building sectors play a huge role in environmental impact. Concrete, the cornerstone of many buildings and construction projects, is considered a high-emission material, but with recent developments, there are new approaches to concrete construction.

Our blog is here to dive into some of the innovative concrete products on the market and where future developments could lead the industry. To learn more about concrete and solutions for sustainable building, keep on reading our article.



The Importance Of Sustainable Building

It’s no secret that sustainability is important in the construction industry. Whether you're a developer, architect, or contractor, understanding these sustainability practices is essential to creating structures that are both resilient and environmentally responsible. Read below to learn more about the importance of sustainability in the construction industry and why it matters.

Air Quality

Optimising building and construction practices can help to improve air quality. In cities and areas with poor air quality, building and construction can contribute to this and add to the pollutants in the air. Air pollution is a worldwide problem which is a large contributor to climate change and can distribute infectious diseases. Through better practices and more environmentally conscious approaches, building and construction companies can reduce the amount of air pollution being created from a project. 

Reducing Waste

Waste is another area of construction sectors that can be detrimental to the environment. From building waste to resources and wasted energy, there are several areas of a project that can produce unnecessary waste that damages the environment. By utilising waste reduction processes and more strategic approaches to waste, construction companies can reduce this area of their carbon footprint. Focusing on ethical resources and recycling, companies can be more environmentally friendly.

Environmental Damage

Environmental damage from construction projects can occur in several ways. From air pollution and waste to damage that affects surrounding areas and water contamination, construction projects can be harmful in a range of ways. Large projects can often damage areas of natural wildlife or contaminate natural water resources, which harms local eco-systems. They can also contribute to climate change and other widespread environmental issues.

Occupant Health

Sustainable construction isn't just crucial for the environment, and it deeply impacts building occupants too. Many research studies have found that sustainable construction methods have improved occupant health and well-being. The indoor environmental quality of a space also has a deep impact on the health of a building's occupants and their comfort. Ensuring that people are protected is another key consideration of sustainable construction.

Sustainable Challenges In Construction

After looking at the various reasons why sustainability is important in the construction sector, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges in the industry. By acknowledging the challenges posed, construction managers and property developers can work to find solutions that fulfil a project's needs without compromising the environment. Some of the sustainability challenges present in construction include the following.

Integrating Sustainable Features

One of the trickiest parts of focusing on sustainability is the integration of sustainable features. Traditional construction practises that have been used for years can be difficult to change and adapt, however with the focus on sustainability, construction professionals are having to find ways to incorporate sustainable features such as:

●    Energy efficient systems

●    Recycled materials

●    Renewable energy sources

Integrating new sustainability features can be unfamiliar and requires employees to adapt to new techniques and technology.

Upfront Costs

The upfront costs that come with sustainable building design and practices can also be a challenge for developers. Even though they provide long term benefits, the initial investment for some of these projects can be daunting. Specialised materials and the time-intensive nature of sustainable methods can lead to anticipation and challenges regarding project timelines.

Regulatory Compliance

As the general awareness of the environment is increasing, governments are starting to implement more stringent environmental standards and building codes to promote sustainability. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in fines and other legal consequences, but the evolving dynamic of these rules can be challenging. Failure to meet government regulations can damage the health of a project as well as the reputation of certain construction firms that fail to comply.

Adapting

As the construction industry continues changing, adapting is a challenge being faced across various companies. Having to change and amend traditional methods can prove difficult, from new employees to industry experts. Continuous learning and adaptation is proving essential for construction professionals to navigate the sustainability changes that need to be made.

Sustainable Concrete Solutions

When it comes to concrete in the construction industry, finding ways to make this fundamental material more sustainable has taken time. However, with recent developments in technology and accessibility to resources, there are several sustainable concrete solutions that construction companies can utilise.

MEGASLAB

MEGASLAB is a key player when it comes to sustainability and durability in the concrete world. This material uses proprietary technology, reducing the carbon footprint of the material while enhancing durability. Using this eco-friendly concrete technology, MEGASLAB consistently outperforms portland cement and other standard concrete materials in various applications.

This material is designed for high-performance industrial applications, such as warehouse floors and parking buildings. MEGASLAB concrete also has an extended lifespan, helping to conserve resources and reduce waste. 

Geopolymer Concrete

Geopolymer concrete is another sustainable alternative to Portland cement, and uses industrial by-products such as ash and slag. By using this process, the need for high temperature kiln processing is reduced, which in turn brings down the COs emissions released by the process. Geopolymer concrete also has superior durability and is resistant to both heat and chemicals. It’s an ideal solution for harsh environments.

Self Healing Concrete

Self-healing concrete, while it may sound totally fictional, is actually a real development. This type of concrete has been specifically designed to minimise maintenance needs and extend the lifespan of the material, helping with sustainability. This concrete includes bacteria or capsules of healing agents which become active when cracks appear in the concrete. This incredible innovation has reduced the need for repairs and maintenance, promoting longer-lasting concrete materials.

Carbon Negative Concrete

Carbon negative concrete is a material that has been designed to capture CO2, rather than emitting it during the production process. By using these carbon-sequestering materials and innovative design processes, this material turns buildings into carbon sinks. Not only does this help with the carbon footprint of the building, but it actively works to rescue the CO2 levels in the atmosphere, making it a smart and reliable alternative that works towards sustainability.

Light Transmitting Concrete

Light transmitting concrete is another new and exciting innovation that works towards sustainability. This type of concrete embeds optical fibres in the material, which allows natural light to pass through it. This minimises the need for artificial lighting, lowering the energy consumption of particular buildings. This type of concrete might be used in pathways, staircases and other spaces where light is needed, but building operators don’t want to rely on an external source of power.

This type of concrete also has aesthetic benefits, which means it opens up design opportunities whilst also supporting sustainable construction.

WM Thompson & Sons Ltd: Concrete Products For Your Project

Here at WM Thompson & Sons, we pride ourselves on our commitment to sustainability and the environment. We place a large focus on working with the environment, not against it. Our team will be happy to help you with your construction waste, disposing of all your materials in an ethical and environmentally friendly way. Our quarrying methods also prioritise the environment, making sure we cause as little environmental impact as possible.

If you're looking for reliable quarry services or concrete solutions, WM Thompson & Sons are here to help. We offer a range of construction services, from concrete products, including ready mix concrete, to aggregates across Glasgow, we can help you fulfil the needs of your next project. To learn more about our concrete or waste management, feel free to get in touch with our team today!