As one of the fastest growing economies in the world, one of the most critical sectors that would be of paramount importance for the nation’s growth shall be the construction and infrastructure industry. The GDP contribution of the construction sector in the previous year (2022) was around Rs. 11.8 trillion. The infrastructure pipeline projects to be completed in the next five years are currently valued at $1.5 trillion. Most interesting is that demand for warehouses, infrastructure, and other construction-industry outputs are higher for Tier II and III cities, thereby showing that the growth is rather spread in different parts of the country.
This pace of growth and development banking on the construction industry shall be critical (and responsible) for the position that the country secures in the next few decades. However, the construction industry is often correlated with some notorious statistics related to its impact on the environment. For instance, a recent study suggested that the construction sector contributes 23 per cent of global air pollution and around 50 per cent of total climate change. However, for an emerging country such as India, achieving economic growth is quite critical to ensure better living standards for its population. Hence, technology usage must be reimagined to ensure that the energy usage and emissions from the sector can be controlled and optimum growth in the sector can be achieved.
There are multiple ways through which construction technology can help in addressing the climate emergency issue. Some of the most critical factors are discussed here:
Introduction and usage of sustainable building materials
One of the primary ways that construction technology can help reduce carbon emissions is by developing and using sustainable building materials. Traditional building materials such as concrete and steel are highly carbon-intensive and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. However, by exploring and implementing new, sustainable materials, it is possible to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings drastically. Some examples of such materials include cross-laminated timber, bamboo, and hempcrete. These materials are renewable, biodegradable, producing far fewer emissions during production and use.
Digital construction management
Another way that technology can help reduce carbon emissions is through digital construction management. Construction companies can use tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) to reduce raw material wastage, increase efficiency, and reduce costs. BIM allows for better planning, scheduling, and communication during construction, reducing the risk of errors and rework and ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget.
There is often some material wastage or overuse during the construction of any project. This usually happens because the materials and tasks aren’t managed well. Overconsumption of materials not only incurs a cost but also adds up to the total carbon footprint of the project. It is a simple directly proportional equation – if a building is constructed using 10 per cent excess raw materials, 10 per cent extra CO2 is emitted.
In the current scenario, materials are managed via unorganised platforms like WhatsApp and MS Excel, making maintaining a close eye on material consumption tedious. Many builders consume at least 8-10 per cent of extra raw materials, contributing to a higher carbon footprint. This is where digital construction management can play a significant role. BIM allows for better communication during construction, reducing the risk of errors and rework and ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget. This reduces the need for additional raw materials and the carbon footprint associated with their production.
Energy Efficiency Mechanisms
Energy efficiency is another critical factor in reducing the environmental impact of buildings. The construction industry currently uses around 40 per cent of the total energy globally, and the emissions from commercial buildings shall increase by almost 1.8 per cent by 2030 if energy efficiency mechanisms are not properly introduced. Incorporating energy-efficient features such as insulation, triple-pane windows, and smart HVAC systems can significantly reduce a building’s energy consumption and carbon emissions. Additionally, integrating renewable energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines can help buildings produce their own energy and even contribute to the grid.
Building Automation
Building automation is also an essential tool in reducing energy waste. Buildings can optimise energy usage and reduce waste by implementing automation systems that utilise sensors and algorithms. For instance, an automated lighting system that adjusts to the amount of natural light can reduce energy consumption and save costs. Some studies point out that introducing building automation can help reduce energy usage and the industry’s cost anywhere between 10 to 30 per cent. This is where collaborating with tech companies with expertise in building automation is critical for construction companies as it would eventually save significant money and resources.
Off-site construction
Off-site construction using prefabricated components is another technology that can reduce the construction industry’s carbon footprint. This approach allows for the use of modular building designs that can be adapted and reused for different purposes, extending the lifespan of buildings. By constructing buildings off-site, construction becomes more efficient and generates less waste. The prefabrication process can reduce total construction costs by almost 20 per cent, and almost 50 per cent of the real time undertaken for a construction project can be reduced. This is why the demand for off-site construction is increasing steadily, with a global CAGR of 6 per cent.
Summing up
The construction industry has a significant impact on the environment, but it also has the potential to play a critical role in addressing the climate emergency. By embracing sustainable building materials, implementing digital construction management, incorporating energy efficiency mechanisms, building automation, and utilising off-site construction, the construction industry can significantly reduce its carbon footprint while still meeting the demands of a growing economy. Additionally, there is a need for collaboration between construction companies and technology providers to leverage their expertise and develop new innovative solutions. The construction industry has the power to drive change and contribute to a sustainable future, and it is up to all stakeholders to take action and make a positive impact.