Chapter 4 - Introduction to Sustainable Construction

Question 1

What materials does the most material waste come from in the construction industry?

Answer 1

Concrete, bricks, blocks and aggregates.

Question 2

Why does the government setting sustainability goals often not met?

Answer 2

Sustainability goals are often not met because they are not reported on or have no mechanisms in place to measure the progress.

Question 3

What are possible problems with using carbon emissions as a sole criterion for sustainability targets?

Answer 3

You shouldn’t look at a single criterion to meet goals as it may have unintended consequences. Instead, a lifecycle approach should be used that looks at all aspects.

Question 4

What types of carbon emissions are under our direct control and which are under our influence (long-term changes)?

Answer 4

Direct control - capital and operational carbon.

Influence - the rest.

Question 5

What is the definition of capital carbon (CapCarb)?

Answer 5

Emissions related to the creating a material. If its to do with a product, it is called embodied carbon.

Question 6

What is the definition of operational carbon (OpCarb)?

Answer 6

Emissions related to the operation and maintenance of an asset.

Question 7

What is the definition of whole life carbon ?

Answer 7

The sum of capital carbon and operational carbon.

Question 8

What is the definition of end of life carbon?

Answer 8

Emissions related to the disposal of materials/products.

Question 9

What’s the relationship between operational and capital carbon and how is it expected to change in the future?

Answer 9

Operational carbon is significantly higher than capital carbon at the moment but the proportion is expected to fall due to the use of renewable energy reducing operational carbon. Capital carbon is expected to rise due to more infrastructure despite manufacturing efficiencies.

Question 10

When is the carbon reduction potential of a project at its earliest?

Answer 10

During the earliest stages of the project. It reduces as the project timeline is carried out.

Question 11

Order the most sustainable way to complete a project in terms of carbon reduction potential?

Answer 11

1. Build nothing and find an alternative way to achieve the desired outcome.
2. Build less by maximising the use of existing assets and reducing the extent of new construction.
3. Build clever by using low carbon materials, streamline delivery processes and minimising resource consumption.
4. Build efficiently by embracing new technology and eliminating waste.

Question 12

What are the 4 UNSDGS that are relevant to the construction industry?

Answer 12

9 - Industry, innovation, infrastructure.

11 - Sustainable cities and communities.

12 - Responsible consumption and production.

13 - Climate action.