Why is the construction industry struggling to go green?

Industries across the globe have been set environment targets, construction included. However, over three-quarters of construction professionals feel these targets are unachievable.

Technology is at the heart of eco-friendly practices, and the construction industry is known for being reluctant to adapt to new technologies. Construction is the biggest industry in the world and makes up 13% of global GDP. Unfortunately, this industry has only seen a 1% productivity growth in the last two decades, costing the global economy a whopping $1.3 trillion annually.

Construction needs to adapt and change their manual processes to build a better and greener world – but what’s stopping them?

COVID-19

Many industries, particularly retail and hospitality, took a massive hit in the pandemic. However, construction managed to bounce back, and two-thirds of businesses believe they are well-placed to recover further in 2021.

In the first lockdown, organisations were forced to revise their supply chain management processes and improve health and safety precautions. Many turned to local suppliers to save money and, as a result, made a small step towards a greener business.

Technology

We need more efficient tools, and training in how to use them, to build eco-friendly homes. Inefficient older tools consume huge amounts of energy and produce a whopping carbon footprint.

Construction businesses need to use cloud software for greater collaboration and efficiency between staff. This software can improve planning, resource monitoring, e-sourcing, procurement processes and stock management. All of which will streamline decision making, timelines and cut budgets. This is also where EHS software is useful since it helps you track and reduce organizational emissions.

Construction could even use virtual tours of sites to reduce on-site footfall. Smart helmets could provide employees with instant feedback and utilise safety features, like health trackers, emergency alerts and much more.

Drones, robots and autonomous heavy equipment could even solve labour shortages.

The drawback is, only 19% of contractors have the budget available for data analytics, and manual labour is the norm for many businesses.

Integrating tech could improve safety training and recruitment processes – but it requires funding and investment.

Eco-friendly tools

Air compressors can reduce your business’ carbon footprint by up to 35%, compared to traditional tools. Construction industries have long relied on the safe, energy-efficient and high-output capabilities of air compressors. Depending on the task, air compressors can produce variable flows and replace a range of pneumatic tools and equipment. For example, rotary screw air compressors will be found in jackhammers, nail guns and compactors.

Compressors offer a mobile power source that won’t overheat or unexpectedly surge, making them much safer than traditional tools. They are efficient for bulk drilling, handling and lifting operations. Air compressors power dozens of these equipment types across various sectors like infrastructure development, road building, demolition, as well as commercial and residential projects big and small.

The future

In short, core systems need to be upgraded through an advanced connectivity infrastructure. To do this, companies need to make strategic tech partnerships to educate themselves on technology processes and maximise their value.

Technology could secure the future of construction, and ensure it keeps growing in the post-pandemic era.