Tag: Carbon footprint

5 Helpful Tips for Carrying out Sustainable Construction: Your Ethical Guide to Sustainable Construction

The construction industry remains a top contributor to pollution and climate change. It accounts for about 40% of global emissions. This is as a result of a number of factors which range from material sourcing and transportation to waste management.

Now, with rising environmental concerns, the industry is increasingly turning towards sustainable practices and reducing its carbon footprint. This not only benefits the environment but also the construction industry, as sustainable construction also promotes long-term economic and social benefits.

With that said, here are a few practical tips for carrying out sustainable construction.

1. Choose Eco-Friendly Building Materials:

Opt for materials that are renewable, recycled, or have a low environmental impact. For instance, bamboo is perfect for construction because it is durable and it grows rapidly. Moreover, recycled steel gotten from car scraps, shipping containers, oil drums, and the like is another good material.

Also, low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints and sealants are safer substitutes to traditional paints and sealants. In addition, concrete alternatives such as hempcrete, fly ash concrete or concrete made using sawdust and wood ash are better options.

2. Reduce Construction Waste:

Always plan to minimize waste from the beginning. To do this, start by ordering materials in precise amounts to avoid excess. Another way is by recycling and reusing materials wherever possible. Additionally, work with suppliers who offer take-back programs so that excess materials can be returned. This way, you avoid excessive waste, and unused materials won't end up becoming pollutants.

3. Incorporate Passive Design:

Passive design involves taking advantage of natural elements to maintain comfortable temperatures indoors. To achieve this, position buildings to maximize sunlight in cold weather and shade in the heat. In addition, use natural ventilation to reduce reliance on artificial cooling. Finally, employ thermal mass materials like concrete, stone, etc. that absorb and release heat slowly. This way, buildings will be less reliant on artificial cooling and heating systems.

4. Prioritize Energy Efficiency:

Design buildings to consume less energy through smart architecture and efficient systems. This can be done by using insulation materials that retain heat or cool air so as to reduce the need for fans and ACs. Additionally, opting for energy-saving HVAC systems and LED lighting helps replace high energy-consuming lighting and cooling systems. Another great option is to consider solar panels and other renewable energy sources instead.

5. Design for Longevity and Adaptability:

Build structures that stand the test of time and can be adapted for future use. Using durable materials like steel and concrete, for instance, helps reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacements. In addition, try designing flexible spaces that can evolve with changing needs.

Finally, ensure to plan for disassembly and recycling at the end of a building’s life cycle so as to reduce waste and pollution.

Final Thoughts

In essence, sustainable construction is not just a trend; it’s a necessary shift towards a healthier planet and a more responsible building culture.

By integrating sustainable practices from the planning phase through to completion, builders and developers can create spaces that are both functional and future-friendly.

At Redcity, we prioritize safe and sustainable construction, which is why we abide by these tips. Not only do we build predominantly with recycled materials, but we also limit waste and build long-lasting structures. Check out many of our products and services here and request a quote here to get started.

Also, feel free to check out our blog for more enlightening news and updates. While you're at it, visit our YouTube channel here to discover some of our exciting content and follow us on Instagram @redcityestate for little insights into a few of our construction projects.

Would you be incorporating these sustainable tips in your next construction project? Let us know your thoughts below.

5 Everyday Habits that Add to Your Carbon Footprint (And How to Change Them) 

When we think of climate change, we often imagine big factories, gas-guzzling trucks, or burning forests.

But did you know your daily habits also play a big role in contributing to carbon emissions? Many of the things we do without thinking, like driving, eating with certain utensils, or leaving lights on, quietly increase our carbon footprint.

What is Carbon a Footprint?

Carbon footprint refers to the total amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere that are generated from a person's direct or indirect activities. It is usually measured in units of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and serves as an estimate for the impact of our activities on the environment.

With that said, here’s a simple guide to the most common everyday habits that contribute to your carbon footprint and what you can do to make a difference.

1. Driving:

Driving cars that run on petrol or diesel significantly adds to your carbon footprint. These vehicles emit carbon dioxide every time you drive them, and when driven every day, those emissions add up fast. On average, a person is estimated to emit about 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually just from driving alone.

To help reduce this, you can try carpooling instead or choose public transport, biking, or walking when possible. Electric vehicles are also a great alternative if accessible.

2. Using Too Much Electricity:

Another habit you may have that adds to your carbon footprint is leaving lights, TVs, or other appliances on when not in use. This is because a large portion of electricity is still generated from fossil fuels, so unnecessary use only increases emissions and, consequently, your carbon footprint.

Therefore, consider switching off and unplugging appliances when not in use, especially when going out. Also, you can opt for energy-saving LED bulbs and use fans instead of AC when possible.

3. Wasting Food:

When food is thrown away, all the resources used to produce it, such as water, labor, transport, etc., are also wasted. Moreover, rotting food in landfills releases methane, which is a greenhouse gas. In essence, wasting food doesn't just waste the food itself; it also wastes the resources used to produce it and contributes to pollution.

So, rather than trashing meals unnecessarily, you can instead plan ahead, store food properly, or get creative with leftovers. Alternatively, you can consider composting which is another great way to keep food waste out of landfills.

4. Flying Frequently

Air travel is one of the fastest-growing causes of greenhouse gas emissions. A single long flight can produce more emissions than many people generate in a year. According to Carbon Independent, each hour of a flight generates about a quarter of a ton or 250 kg of CO2 emissions per passenger. For better context, that's 1.5 tons or 1,500 kg for a six-hour flight. This goes to show how environmentally harmful flying is.

One way to help is by flying less when you can. Also, opting for trains or buses when it comes to shorter trips is a lot more beneficial. However, if you must fly, consider direct flights and carbon offset programs.

5. Using Disposable Items

Plastic cutlery and plates, paper cups, and single-use bags may be convenient, but they contribute to pollution and carbon emissions. The production and disposal of plastic products alone generates about 1.8 billion tons of emissions. Moreover, in producing paper products, timber is needed, which consequently leads to the cutting of trees. Without enough trees, not enough greenhouse gases can be absorbed from the atmosphere, which ultimately increases the amount of these gases in the atmosphere.

Therefore, instead of disposable items, you can opt for reusable ones such as insulated cups, cloth shopping bags, stainless steel chopsticks, and so on.

Final Thoughts

It's important to remember, however, that reducing your carbon footprint doesn’t mean turning your life upside down. It’s just about making small, mindful changes that add up to a big impact over time. Start with one habit at a time, and with a little consistency, you'll help keep our planet healthy.

A good way to start can be by checking out some of the eco-friendly products and services we offer. As a company dedicated to environmental protection, our construction services center around sustainable practices such as recycling and creating energy-efficient structures.

You can check them out here and request a quote here to get started. Also, feel free to check out our blog here for more enlightening news and updates. And you can visit our YouTube channel here to discover some of our exciting content and follow us on Instagram @redcityestate for any important announcements.