Introduction:
Integrating climate change considerations into construction projects is an approach in designing determined as a crucial shift in the construction industry. It is not just about developing eco-friendly buildings; this goes further to include creating structures resilient enough to withstand the increasing challenges caused by climate change. Integrating here involves the incorporating of practices and technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and boost building adaptability to climatic changes.
Impact of Climate Change on Structures
In 2020, the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) carried out a survey of its members, based on the UK National Infrastructure Commission (NIC) ‘s Design Principles for National Infrastructure. 60% of respondents thought climate issues were not given enough importance in design (greenhouse gas emissions 66%, adaptation for climate change 59%), which is a percentage that must be taken into consideration. Climate change impacts cause a great deal of damage to the structures and buildings, including rising temperatures, storms, and hurricanes. These changes increase the energy requirements for heating or cooling buildings, raise maintenance and repair costs and negatively impact the resilience of infrastructure. Additionally, the materials used in construction contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, thereby increasing posed by climate change.
Early Intervention to face climate change
Planning, designing and other early stages of the project, offer great opportunities to influence a building’s environmental performance. Once construction commences, opportunities to impact the overall design become severely limited. Therefore, engineers should get involved early enough in the project lifecycle to harness climate change considerations into construction process. Construction professionals can achieve this by selecting suitable locations, utilizing sustainable materials, and designing energy-efficient building systems.
Practices to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Greenhouse gases are naturally occurring gases in Earth’s atmosphere like CO2. However, increased concentrations due to human activities are causing the planet to warm. These gases act like a blanket around Earth, allowing sunlight to pass through. However, trapping a significant portion of the heat radiating back from the planet, leading to a rise in global temperature. Increased greenhouse gas concentrations trap more heat, causing global warming which leads to more intensifying shifts in weather patterns. As indicated, bad weather negatively affects buildings’ performance. Herby, practices should be set to minimize greenhouse gas emissions including:
Employing Eco-Friendly Construction Materials: Opting for building materials with lower carbon footprints, such as recycled wood and low-carbon concrete.
Adopting Renewable Energy Sources: Implementing solar power systems, wind turbines, and other green energy sources to generate electricity and reduce reliance on the traditional power grid.
Energy Conservation: employing high-quality insulating materials, and smart lighting systems to minimize energy usage.
Water Management: Applying sustainable water management techniques, such as greywater reuse and rainwater harvesting.
Tips for Integrating Climate Change Considerations
Strategic Planning: Assessing climate change potential risks in the region and develop strategies to adapt to these risks.
Collaboration with the Design Team: all engineers from all specializes, who are responsible for the safety of the building, should work closely as a one team. Architects, civil engineers, and urban planners must ensure the integration of climate change considerations throughout all project stages.
Adhering to Sustainable Building Standards: Committing to internationally recognized sustainable building standards like LEED or BREEAM.
Providing Training and Awareness: Providing training and awareness for construction professionals on the importance of sustainability and climate change.
Conclusion
Integrating climate change considerations into construction projects represents a vital step towards building a more sustainable and resilient future. By taking early action and adopting sustainable building practices, we can minimize the construction sector’s environmental impact. Therefor, All stakeholders involved in construction, from engineers and contractors to developers and investors, must embrace their responsibility in building a more sustainable future.