Currently there is greater awareness in preserving the planet and it is absolutely necessary to guarantee a better way of life for our future generations. Cities are one of the main problems of environmental pollution, and with them, their buildings. Therefore, in this article we will see what the keys to sustainable construction consist of.
Today, construction companies are using materials such as rock wool, polyurethane (PUR) or polyisocyanurate (PIR) sandwich panels, as well as recycled materials, and they also reuse water, and take advantage of geothermal and solar energy, among others, so that their processes are more friendly to the environment and that the buildings are energy efficient.
Both in private homes and in large buildings, more and more products such as insulating glass are used to maintain a pleasant interior temperature, reduce the use of air conditioners or heaters, and to reduce noise from outside. They are also using more and more systems for the collection of rainwater, and for the treatment and recycling of water.
A sustainable construction can be defined as one in which the execution of construction techniques and materials are respectful of our environment. In essence, it is about meeting the current needs of people without compromising the natural resources of our environment.
| We recommend you read: Know the 6 principles of sustainable construction.
Until relatively recently, we were not so aware of the importance of preserving our planet’s natural resources. In addition, pollution is one of the main problems that significantly affect the climate change in which we are immersed, and much of it occurs in our cities.
For the realization of a sustainable construction, there are several keys that must be followed. Below, we show the most relevant:
Bioconstruction is characterized by the use of materials of natural origin and easily recyclable, if possible they are local, also reducing transportation costs and in turn reducing the use of fuel. Those that must be durable and in which various technologies can be incorporated, such as energy capture, CO2 digesters, which help to eliminate pollution from cities.
Natural light can be used in a design that favors indoor ventilation, a good degree of thermal insulation and the use of renewable energy, are fundamental aspects to avoid the use of air conditioning equipment that does not emit polluting gases into the environment. The objective is to achieve a design that generates interior comfort without energy expenditure.
The design of the building must be fully adapted to the environment that surrounds it and not generate any type of environmental impact. The objective is its integration, and for this the form of construction in the area and its possible evolution must be studied.
The reuse of natural resources contributes to sustainability. Sustainable constructions are characterized by the use of rainwater at its different points of consumption thanks to filtering and purification systems. With the aim of optimizing this vital resource and making greater efforts in actions aimed at improving the distribution and management of water, the construction sector is increasingly involved in caring for water and its treatment, as well as saving, reduction of consumption, efficiency of use, reduction of leaks, efficient distribution systems, reuse, among other actions.
Definitely, a sustainable construction is characterized by being respectful with the environment, and for this, natural resources must be used to the maximum. With this we will achieve healthier cities, an increase in the quality of life and the protection of the planet.
