The principles of sustainable construction

This article outlines the importance of immediate action to ensure sustainable development and explains why construction has such a major role to play. The broader issues are introduced but the focus is on those actions which the construction industry can take to make the biggest improvements, namely reducing energy use associated with both the building process and the operation of buildings throughout their life. It is also important that the useful life of the building is prolonged, opportunities are taken to reuse components and recycle materials when they are no longer needed and that materials are sourced in such a way that impacts are minimised. The challenge of reducing demolition waste and making positive use of other waste products are also considered. The specific information and relative importance of different issues discussed in this article relate mainly to the UK, but the principles are universal.