Eco-Friendly Choices: How to Choose the Right Construction Supplies
In 2020, the US had over 5,000 million metric tons in greenhouse gas emissions. This includes carbon dioxide and its equivalents.
Last year emissions rose by 6.2%. The country is still a long way from its target of a 50-52% reduction by 2030.
However, Virginia is doing its part and pledged last year to reduce emissions by 45% in 2025. A year later, they're halfway there. Sixteen businesses collectively achieved a 28% reduction.
A few of them focused on the sustainability and energy efficiency of their buildings. Imagine what the state could achieve if more businesses played a part.
You can by choosing to use eco-friendly construction supplies. Read on to find out where to start.
Choosing Eco-Friendly Construction Supplies
Your company may still be recovering from last year's shortage of building materials. Thankfully, things are stabilizing.
This may be the perfect opportunity to change to eco-friendly building and construction. But you'll need to be sure the products you choose are truly safe for the environment.
It starts with doing extensive research and evaluation. When making your final selection choose the products with the most environmental attributes.
Look at What They're Made From
Eco-friendly products are usually made from recycled materials. They may also consist of natural or renewable elements. Here are a few materials to consider:
Bamboo
Recycled Steel
Precast Concrete
Sheep's Wool
Reclaimed Wood
Sustainable or recycled wood is also an option. You may also want to consider recycled plastic or plant-based products. Some options may consist of synthetic components or natural materials. A few have a combination of both.
Is it Resource Efficient?
Does manufacturing the product involve minimum waste? Does it also include less energy consumption? If so, you have a resource-efficient product.
These products contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gases. They usually meet specific criteria. They're:
In plentiful supply or natural occurring
Durable
Contain recycled content or packaging
Available locally
They're also reusable or recyclable. Choose products that meet most of these criteria. This will contribute greatly to a more sustainable building.
Do They Enhance Indoor Air Quality?
Next, go one step beyond what they're made of. Find out if they emit harmful toxins in the air when used.
Safe options include materials that are moisture-resistant. They should also have low emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
Installation should also include little or no VOCs. You shouldn't need to use harmful chemicals to maintain them either as well.
In your environmental design, consider products that conserve water and reduce energy consumption. This can include products that control erosion and reduce sediment flow. It's an important factor at construction sites. Also, look at their affordability.
Building for a More Sustainable Future
Climate change is a hot topic in today's business world and society as a whole. However, it may seem elusive, as emissions continue to increase. But every effort counts as seen by the 16 Virginia businesses doing their part.
You can get your clients started to help attain the state's goal. Discuss sustainable building alternatives with them. You can then stock up on the construction supplies to support this.
Environmental Construction Solutions can help you achieve this. We carry a range of building materials approved by the Virginia Department of Transportation. We can help support your environmental design. Contact us to get your project started.