With the issue of climate change increasingly at the forefront of many people’s minds, it’s vital that your construction business does its bit to contribute towards a greener future for our planet. In the UK, new construction produces 48 million tonnes of carbon dioxide each year, so the industry has a hugely significant role to play.
The government has made pledges to bring all greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050, and there are examples of companies within the sector who have set targets to reduce fossil fuels, mileage and limit their use of electricity, all with a view to going zero-carbon.
That will mean those businesses will no longer have to offset their carbon footprint to become carbon neutral. But what exactly does carbon neutral mean, and how can your company make progress towards achieving it?
What does carbon neutral mean?
Construction companies can reduce their carbon footprint as much as possible by following some of the steps below. But it may prove tricky to eliminate their emissions altogether, which is why many choose to remove carbon from the atmosphere or help others to reduce their emissions. This essentially accounts for the remainder of their carbon footprint, which is where the term carbon neutral comes from.
How can your construction company reduce its carbon footprint?
Invest in electric vans
From 2030, the sale of new petrol and diesel cars will be banned, a move which could ultimately spell the end for all combustion engine vehicles. Making the switch to an electric fleet may represent a significant initial outlay, but on top of the clear benefits for the environment there are longer-term savings to be made and government grants available to subsidise the cost.
Use battery-powered tools
Many power tools are fuelled by petrol or diesel engines, but the burning of these substances releases harmful emissions. Instead, choose an industrial equipment supplier who specialises in zero-emission tools that provide the same power but at less of a cost to the environment.
Collect rainwater
Most jobsites use gallons of water every day – whether that be for cleaning up, mixing concrete, cement or plaster. Unfortunately, that creates a high volume of washaway, which can prove damaging to nearby vegetation and its ability to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Storing rainfall in butts or barrels can cut costs and limit the amount of water running off-site throughout the day.
Reduce waste
A lot of construction waste goes to landfill sites, but your business can do its part to limit that volume by not over-ordering on materials and reusing or recycling any that are left over.