One-fourth of all carbon dioxide emissions are generated by the industry of construction. Emissions that are harmful to the environment could be significantly reduced and even halved by integrating crucial changes in the use of construction materials, supply chain, production, and even transport. The most logical solution in reducing emissions in the sector is to find alternatives to techniques and materials contributing to the global level of carbon dioxide emissions.
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Emissions Could be Reduced by Half or Completely Diminished with Today’s Tech
Researchers from the Chalmers University of Technology and the University of Gothenburg studied a construction project conducted by the Swedish Transport Agency, calculating emissions during the process of construction of an eight-kilometer road. The team determined that the impact of construction causing increased emissions of carbon dioxide could be reduced by half with the use of today’s technology. As Ida Karlsson from the team of researchers claims, emissions could be reduced with the general optimization of transport and construction.
Measures for Reduction of Emissions in Construction
As the team of researchers managed to calculate, the level of emissions of carbon dioxide in construction could be significantly reduced by optimizing materials used in construction as well as the transport of materials. Aside from the general optimization of transport, Karlsson emphasized the importance of recycling materials and reuse of steel, excavation masses, and concrete. The efficiency of materials and construction designs should also go through optimization. Moreover, the team recommends the replacement of cement clinker and find an alternative binder for concrete.
Reaching Net-Zero Carbon Emissions
Ida Karlsson suggests biomass and the use of fossil-free alternatives in construction to be able to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2045. Raw materials and biomass should be encouraged for a wide usage in construction to reduce the level of harmful emissions.
