Zero carbon in structural waterproofing
All over the world, decarbonisation towards Net Zero is seen as a major priority in the built environment. Various terminologies are used to denote buildings transitioning to Net Zero. For complete decarbonization of the built environment, the industry calls for all to adopt a holistic carbon approach. This approach considers emissions from operational energy use in buildings, as well as the embodied carbon originating from building materials and construction or renovation processes.
Buildings hold significant influence in global energy consumption, accounting for over half of the world’s electricity usage for heating, cooling, and lighting. Additionally, their contribution to energy-related greenhouse-gas emissions surpasses a third when factoring in building materials and construction. This considerable environmental footprint underlines the critical need for transformation in building construction and operation to effectively confront the climate crisis.
In response to this, several developers and property owners worldwide are proactively exceeding regulatory standards, striving to construct or retrofit existing buildings into carbon-neutral structures. These zero-carbon buildings are designed for maximum energy efficiency, reduced water consumption, and equal energy generation and usage, often harnessing renewable energy sources.
Green Roofs
Green roofs, also known as rooftop gardens, are essentially layers of vegetation planted on top of buildings. These eco-friendly installations have a variety of benefits including providing shade, absorbing heat from the air, and decreasing the temperatures of both the rooftop and the adjacent atmosphere. In urban areas or other constructed environments with scarce greenery, the application of green roofs can help mitigate the urban heat island phenomenon, especially during daytime hours.
Ventilation
Implementing natural ventilation strategies in a building design can enhance comfort levels by introducing fresh air and lowering the temperature. This not only reduces reliance on air conditioning, but also decreases maintenance costs. Factors such as room size and the positioning and quantity of openings directly influence this strategy’s effectiveness.
Lighting
Switching to LED light bulbs is a practical way to cut back on energy usage. These bulbs are incredibly efficient, consuming significantly less power than traditional alternatives.
Recycle building materials
A myriad of materials deriving from construction and demolition projects hold the potential for recycling. This includes, but is not limited to:
- aggregates
- metals
- plastics
- glass
- wood
- bricks and blocks
- floor and wall coverings
- insulation
- plasterboard
- packaging
Managing and changing site operations
Implement strategic modifications to your site’s operations to minimise wastage and facilitate enhanced recycling. A comprehensive waste management plan includes managing material usage from the beginning to the end of the project, ensuring efficient and sustainable practices.
Ensuring precise orders for construction materials. The task of material procurement should ideally be assigned to the most experienced and knowledgeable individuals within the team. Over-ordering can lead to unnecessary waste and cost overruns, while under-ordering can result in project delays. Therefore, it is essential to review past orders, identify any mistakes, understand their causes, and use these insights to improve future procurement practices.
Reducing Water Usage
Rainwater harvesting is a sustainable and efficient method of water conservation that involves collecting and storing rainwater for future use. This system can help reduce water bills, provide an alternative water supply during water restrictions, and create a self-sufficient water system. Not only does it have economic benefits, but it also aids in combating water scarcity and promoting environmental sustainability. It is a practical solution that is accessible to everyone, and it contributes significantly to water conservation efforts worldwide.
Choose sustainable materials
Sustainable materials are an essential aspect of environmental conservation efforts. These are materials that, in their production and usage, minimise harm to the environment. This is achieved by reducing energy consumption, waste, and emissions. Using sustainable materials is a practical way of tackling global challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and waste accumulation.
Certification – Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS)
Organisations globally are focusing on mitigating their environmental footprint, with a goal of fostering a sustainable society. EMAS, an acronym for the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme, is an effective mechanism in this endeavour. Initiated by the European Commission via the specific EMAS Regulation, it aids organisations in enhancing their environmental performance and conserving energy while maximising resource utilisation. It serves as a superior management tool for evaluating, reporting, and refining an organisation’s environmental performance.
Delta Membrane Systems Limited is a manufacturer and provider of specialist structural waterproofing solutions, covering Type A, Type B, and Type C waterproofing, combination waterproofing, damp proofing, basement drainage, flood resilience and ground gas protection.
Whatever the needs of your project, you can rely on Delta’s Technical Team to ensure you get the right advice, support, and practical help at exactly the right time its required. Call us today on 01992 523 523 or email info@deltamembranes.com.
