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Why sustainability is important in construction

Date: 20th September 2023 Ground Protection

What is green construction?

In today’s rapidly evolving world, the concept of sustainability has transcended mere trend status and transformed into an essential for those across industries. 

This is particularly evident in the construction industry, where demand for new builds and renovation show no signs of slowing down, propelling the momentum of more sustainable construction practices forward. 

At Centriforce, we believe that aligning construction with sustainability isn’t just an option – it’s a paramount responsibility for safeguarding the planet we call home. Continue reading this blog to learn about the multiple ways in which you can incorporate sustainability into construction projects.

Understanding green construction

Environmentally friendly construction, so known as sustainable construction, seeks to avoid the negative environmental impacts associated with construction projects. It encompasses the entire lifecycle of a building, from its conceptualisation and design to its construction, operation, and eventual decommissioning. 

Our commitment to more environmentally friendly construction isn’t just about minimising harm; it’s about creating structures that offer positive benefits to both those using the building and the environment it is situated in. 

Why is sustainability important in construction?

As global urbanisation surges ahead and construction remains an indispensable fact of society, the imperative to embrace more environmentally ethical construction becomes crystal clear. Each construction project, no matter the scale, inherently leaves an ecological footprint. 

By adopting these  practices, your company can reduce the industries footprint whilst ensuring that the buildings erected operate in a sustainable manner that has benefits to the environment. The numbers underline the urgency: In 2019, the UK alone produced a staggering 896, 853 tonnes  of plastic packaging. Such stats paint a compelling picture of the environmental challenges we confront. 

Constructing a greener tomorrow with green construction

We find ourselves at a pivotal juncture, with industries awakening to their collective role in preserving our planet. Building materials can have far-reaching impacts, from deforestation to pollution and carbon emissions. 

By choosing sustainable alternatives and environmentally friendly options, such as those available at Centriforce, you are helping reduce the industries impact on the environment. 

Sustainable materials covers the materials you fabricate a building with to those you use during construction but do not necessarily make up the physical structure itself.

Green construction: a key in Urban Development

As the world’s population gravitates towards cities, urban development takes centre stage in combating climate change. Cities consume a staggering 78% of energy and generate 60% of greenhouse gas emissions. Recognising this, the United Nations has championed sustainable urbanisation, envisioning habitable, inclusive and sustainable cities. 

The use of wood in construction, a practice deeply ingrained in the industry, carries significant environmental repercussions that necessitates its consideration. The negative implications of traditional timber use extends far beyond the immediate construction phase. 

The depletion of forests, leading to deforestation and loss of biodiversity, is a stark consequence of excessive wood consumption. Moreover, the energy-intensive processes involved in timber extraction, processing, and transportation contribute to higher carbon emissions, further exacerbating climate change. These environmental concerns underscore the urgency to explore sustainable alternatives that can mitigate these drawbacks while upholding the structural integrity demanded by construction projects. 

In the pursuit of sustainable construction, Centriforce has manufactured recycled plastic alternatives which not only helps to conserve forests by repurposing discarded plastic, but it also curtails carbon emissions and diminishes the energy-intensive aspects of wood protection. 

Plywood sheets are typically used during construction projects to help protect grounds from damage caused by heavy machinery and tools but does not sufficiently protect the planet. 

Centriforce takes an active role in advancing this mission through offerings such as our ProTrackTM Protection Mat. This specially engineered solution is tailored to elevate worksite safety within construction environments while safeguarding delicate ground conditions without compromising the environment. 

Our ground protection mat, crafted entirely from 100% recycled plastic, aligns with our commitment to sustainability and boasts impact resilient and water resistant qualities making it suitable for construction projects. Moreover, after serving its purpose, the mat can be recycled, showcasing our dedication to a circular economy. 

Notably, its anti-slip checker plate design amplifies traction, effectively minimising the risk of worker slips for a safer construction environment.

Opting for sustainable materials during the fabrication of a building or project stands as a crucial step in embracing construction principles that don’t harm the environment. 

Striking a balance between materials that don’t contribute to climate change while upholding durability and quality might seem challenging, yet Centriforce offers a solution that precisely fits this criterion. Our Durplas Profile and Boardwalks, though deceptively resembling wood, have been meticulously engineered to mirror wood’s tactile appeal without the environmental concerns that accompany it. 

While wood might appear eco-friendly, it often necessitates treatment or lamination to mimic the enduring and robust attributes inherently possessed by plastic.

Durplas Profile and Boardwalks have been used as outdoor seating or decking, and unlike other recycled plastic planks available on the market, doesn’t leach toxic chemicals into the environment. Yet another reason why Centriforce is the go to choice for those wanting to pick greener construction materials. 

Our inventive recycled plastic sheets present a versatile solution, enabling the creation of planters that foster green spaces. Particularly advantageous for high-rise buildings, this approach seamlessly integrates architecture with its environment. Duraplas Rigi Board exemplifies resilience against the elements year-round, making it a fitting choice for outdoor applications and easily adaptable for bespoke projects. 

By incorporating planters, the potential for establishing green areas becomes limitless, irrespective of available space. This introduction of vegetation in urban centres not only enriches ecosystems but also serves as a countermeasure against CO2 emissions produced by vehicular activity.

Choosing a path of sustainability with Centriforce

Construction isn’t just about erecting buildings; it’s about constructing a future that is sustainable and flourishing. By thoughtfully selecting construction materials that are less harmful, you can simultaneously minimise waste and maximise usability. 

In a world driven by data, it’s vital to acknowledge that every small choice contributes to the larger picture. The time to embrace green construction isn’t tomorrow – it’s today. 

At Centriforce, we’re dedicated to crafting a sustainable future, one building at a time. Let’s build a greener world together.