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A NECESSITY FOR THE FUTURE.
At a time when environmental issues are becoming ever more pressing, the construction industry needs to rethink its practices. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the construction sector is responsible for around 36% of the world’s energy consumption and almost 40% of energy-related CO2 emissions. Given these alarming figures, developing sustainable, recyclable and low-carbon footprint building products has become a priority to ensure a greener future and meet global climate targets.
THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
The figures speak for themselves: the construction industry generates a considerable environmental impact. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that around 600 million tonnes of construction and demolition (C&D) waste are generated annually in the United States. This type of waste in Europe represents around 25-30%. These statistics underline the urgency of rethinking our construction methods to minimize waste and reduce our ecological footprint.
TOWARDS A CIRCULAR ECONOMY
The circular economy offers a sustainable alternative to the traditional linear economy. This model aims to eliminate waste and minimize pollution from the product design stage by reusing, recycling and regenerating materials. An analysis by the European Commission indicates that by integrating sustainable and recyclable materials, we could reduce construction waste going to landfills by 70%.
Committed manufacturers such as MAC are reviewing their methods and working on developing and optimizing their processes. Advances include choosing greener materials, favouring local sourcing, efficient transformation processes, product lifecycle, and energy and natural resource conservation.
According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, transitioning to a circular economy in the construction sector could reduce CO2 emissions by 38% by 2030. We are building a more environmentally friendly future by focusing on sustainable and recyclable building products.
NORTH AMERICAN TARGETS FOR REDUCING GHG EMISSIONS
North American governments have set ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Canada aims for carbon neutrality by 2050, while the Biden administration in the United States aims for a 50-52% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 2005.
To meet these targets, manufacturing companies need to innovate in terms of sustainable materials and construction methods. This includes developing durable products that require less maintenance and replacement, thus reducing the consumption of natural resources.
THE KEYS TO CHANGE
THE ACTORS OF CHANGE | ARCHITECT | DEVELOPER | MANUFACTURER
Despite the significant advances made by several committed industry professionals, the concepts of the circular economy and sustainable development still need to be clarified for many. It is essential to raise awareness and educate construction players so that they better understand the importance of choosing sustainable materials with a low carbon footprint in their construction and renovation projects.
A survey by Dodge Data & Analytics reveals that 45% of construction companies perceive a lack of knowledge about sustainable practices as a significant obstacle to their adoption. By increasing awareness and education, we can encourage wider adoption of sustainable building practices and contribute to a healthier future for our planet.
