17/03/2025 | SIAN
The ecological cost of traditional construction and its impact on carbon footprint
Building homes and structures is an essential practice for societal progress; however, when carried out traditionally, it comes with a significant ecological impact. These projects not only demand vast amounts of raw materials but also produce greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.
Carbon Emissions in Regular Construction
According to a study by the World Green Building Council, construction is responsible for 39% of global energy-related carbon emissions, considering both operational emissions and those embedded in materials. The lifecycle of a regular building includes several stages that generate carbon emissions:
Material Extraction: Mining and unplanned logging for raw materials release large amounts of CO2.
Material Production: The manufacturing of cement, steel, and glass is highly energy-intensive and emits global warming gases.
Transportation: The mass transportation of materials from factories to construction sites contributes to the carbon footprint.
Construction: The use of heavy machinery consumes fossil fuels.
Operation and Maintenance: Conventional homes often have high energy consumption due to inefficient climate control systems.
The Global Consequences of This Ecological Impact
Traditional construction methods, driven by urban expansion and infrastructure demand, generate a series of negative impacts that extend beyond the local environment, affecting global stability and the quality of life for future generations.
Loss of Biodiversity:
The destruction of natural environments is leading to species extinction at an alarming rate. According to the 2022 Living Planet Report by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), vertebrate populations have declined by 69% since 1970. The conversion of forests, wetlands, and other natural ecosystems into urban and agricultural areas fragments and destroys habitats, displacing and driving numerous species to extinction.
The loss of key species can trigger a domino effect, destabilizing entire ecosystems and compromising the provision of essential ecosystem services. Additionally, the expansion of monocultures and urbanization reduces habitat and species diversity, making them more vulnerable to diseases, pests, and environmental changes.
Accentuated Climate Changes:
Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Deforestation releases this stored carbon, contributing to global warming.
Natural ecosystems play a crucial role in regulating the climate through evapotranspiration, shade, and other mechanisms. Their destruction alters these patterns, intensifying extreme weather events.
Food and Water Insecurity: Soil erosion, compaction, and contamination reduce land fertility and productivity.
The destruction of wetlands and pollution of freshwater sources compromise water availability and quality, affecting agriculture, industry, and human consumption.
How Can We Change This Reality?
First and foremost, awareness is crucial. Adopting a sustainable approach to urban planning and development, which not only considers short-term environmental and social impacts but also focuses on long-term consequences, is essential. This includes preserving natural ecosystems, promoting social justice, and equity.
Adopting sustainable practices at all stages of the construction process mitigates the ecological impact of buildings, from design and material selection to construction, operation, and eventual decommissioning. This includes:
Use of Sustainable Materials: Recycled materials, certified wood, and other low-impact supplies.
Reduction of Energy and Water Consumption: Implementation of efficient technologies and resource management systems.
Waste Management: Recycling and reusing construction materials.
Promotion of Biodiversity: Integrating green areas and ecological corridors into urban developments.
Forest Restoration
Forests are essential carbon sinks and home to countless species. It is important to avoid deforestation, and developers can contribute to reforestation of affected areas by integrating green spaces into their projects. A report by the World Resources Institute (WRI) states that restoring degraded forests could capture up to 23 gigatons of CO2 by 2030, equivalent to eliminating the annual emissions of 5 billion cars.
By adopting a more sustainable approach to urban development, we can create healthier, more equitable, and resilient environments that contribute to a more sustainable future for all.
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