Builders have been telling me that they need a sustainable solution to address the problem of concrete waste management.
Sustainability
Sustainability is defined as the ability of a system to exist constantly at a cost, in a universe that evolves toward thermodynamic equilibrium, the state with maximum entropy. In the 21st century, it generally refers to the capacity for the biosphere and human civilisation to coexist.
For many in construction, sustainability is understood through three interconnected domains or pillars: environment, economic, and social. Sustainability is not the same as environmentalism, and the industry is slowly recognising the difference.
The Venn diagram shows how sustainability intertwines different areas to achieve better outcomes. Sustainability is increasingly becoming the way to do business, as large funding organisations now require greater accountability before approving finance.
Adams, W.M. (2006). The Future of Sustainability: Re-thinking Environment and Development in the Twenty-first Century. Report of the IUCN Renowned Thinkers Meeting, 29–31 January 2006. Retrieved 16 February 2009.
The increasing focus on sustainability in construction is more than just ‘being green’. It encompasses social, environmental, and economic aspects. Concrete pumping as an industry has a major role in construction, and the hidden costs and opportunities for a sustainable process should not be overlooked.
My next post will cover a solution proposed.
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