In recent years, sustainable construction has become an increasingly popular trend in the construction industry. But what is sustainable construction, and how has it evolved with innovation and development?
What is sustainable construction?
Sustainable construction refers to a way of building that takes into account the long-term environmental, social, and economic impact. This means not only considering the energy efficiency of the building but also the responsible use of natural resources, the quality of life for its occupants, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Sustainable construction implements technologies and materials that are more efficient and environmentally friendly, as well as innovative design and construction practices. The ultimate goal of sustainable construction is to create buildings and communities that are healthier, safer, and more sustainable in the long term.
Innovation and new technologies for sustainable construction
Innovation and new technologies have enabled significant advances in sustainable construction. Here are some of the innovations taking place in the field of construction:
Photovoltaic solar panels have become more efficient and accessible, allowing for their integration into buildings. It is now possible to install solar panels on roofs, facades, and windows, maximizing the generation of renewable energy and reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources.
– Photovoltaic pavement or solar flooring
In Solum, we have designed and developed this type of flooring, which is capable of generating electrical energy from the sunlight it receives, making it a source of renewable energy in urban areas. In this way, urban areas are transformed into spaces for clean and renewable energy production.
New sustainable construction materials are being developed with a lower environmental impact. For instance, concretes and cements with reduced carbon content are being used, along with recycled materials such as plastic or glass.
The use of renewable materials such as certified wood, sheep’s wool, hemp, among others, has a lower carbon footprint, making them more sustainable in the long term
-Intelligent management systems
The implementation of intelligent systems in buildings allows for more efficient control of resources. These systems regulate lighting, climate control, and other elements to optimize energy consumption and reduce waste.
-Modular construction technology
Modular construction is based on the manufacturing of prefabricated components in factories, which are then assembled on the construction site. This technique reduces construction waste, shortens timelines, and improves the energy efficiency of buildings.
-Sensors and real-time monitoring
Sensors integrated into buildings allow real-time data collection on energy consumption, air quality, water usage, among other factors. This facilitates the identification of areas for improvement and data-driven decision-making to maximize sustainability.
-Energy efficiency technology
More efficient systems are being developed for the generation, distribution, and utilization of energy in buildings. This includes LED lighting systems, low-energy consumption HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, and energy management systems that optimize the use of available resources.
These innovations and technologies are transforming the sustainable construction industry, enabling the creation of more sustainable and energy-efficient buildings. With the ongoing development and adoption of these solutions, sustainable construction is expected to become the standard in the industry, promoting a more environmentally friendly future and improving the quality of life for people.
Innovation and new technologies are transforming the way buildings and cities are constructed. Solum‘s photovoltaic pavement or solar flooring is a clear example of how technology can be used to create sustainable and innovative solutions that promote a more livable and environmentally friendly future.
Certifications for Sustainable Construction
Sustainable construction is also driven by the adoption of certifications such as LEED and BREEAM. These certifications assess the environmental and social impact of buildings and promote the implementation of sustainable practices in their construction and operation.
LEED and BREEAM are two of the most globally recognized certifications for sustainable construction:
– LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
It is a rating system developed by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) that assesses the environmental impact of buildings. The LEED certification evaluates various aspects such as energy efficiency, waste management, indoor air quality, and the selection of sustainable materials, among others.
– BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method)
It is a British-origin certification that also focuses on assessing the environmental and social impact of buildings. In addition to energy efficiency and the selection of sustainable materials, BREEAM also evaluates aspects such as accessibility, safety, and the health of building users.
Both certifications aim to promote best practices in sustainable construction and building operation, each with its own requirements and levels of certification. The adoption of these certifications is increasingly widespread worldwide and is considered a standard of excellence in sustainable construction.
From Solum, we have been committed for years to the importance of sustainability and the need to reduce environmental impact. With our pavement photovoltaic , we harness renewable energy, gradually reducing our dependence on fossil fuels.
Sustainable construction is an approach that goes beyond simple energy efficiency and focuses on creating long-term sustainable buildings and communities. Through innovation and new technologies, at Solum, we promote a more sustainable and livable future.
