Title:
Towards Sustainable Construction In Concrete
Author(s):
Publication:
CIA
Volume:
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
2/13/2011
Abstract:
The construction industry makes a huge contribution to our quality of life. Buildings and structures shape our nation and provide the infrastructure for society to grow and develop. But in their construction, use, maintenance, repair, refurbishment, demolition and disposal they currently generate waste and consume energy and resources on a scale that is excessive and unsustainable. It is estimated that approximately 40% of the annual global consumption of materials and energy goes into buildings.[1] This paper briefly outlines some of the environmental, social and financial benefits resulting from more sustainable buildings and discusses issues driving the building industry in Australia towards sustainability. Methods for improving the environmental impact of buildings are given with examples of how concrete, a major construction material, can contribute to realising a more sustainable future.