With a conscious effort of wanting to continue saving our planet, the construction industry has now adopted the concept of a green building. Despite the idea that green construction only started out in order to have an alternative in choosing resources that are environmental-friendly, green construction is actually something that has now become a necessary step in the way that we live our lives. So whether you are an architect, contractor, engineer, realtor, or just plain building owner, there is a great chance that you have already heard about green or sustainable building.
First off, you need to know what exactly is a green building and why is it important.
What is a Green Building and Why is it Important?
A green building is a practice of designing, constructing or operating a building that:
- Reduces or eliminates negative impacts;
- Can create positive impacts on our natural environment and climate;
- Maximize the health and productivity of the occupants; and
- Decreasing life cycle costs
A green building is important because it minimizes resource use while at the same time reduces waste and negative impacts on our environment. It also provides a healthy indoor environment for the occupants of the building. Any building can be a green building. It all depends on the materials that are used to make your construction green.
Some buildings have incorporated green-friendly materials into different parts such as roofs, walls, insulation, access doors, and even their water systems. However, it is not only through the use of materials that make a green building. There are tools that can be used to make construction green.
Tools that Make Construction Green
1. Refurbished Tools
These tools are also called as “reconditioned”. Basically, these are tools that have been returned and then repaired by the manufacturer. When purchased directly from the manufacturer or an authorized dealer, it’s getting a tool that was rebuilt according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Buying used and reconditioned tools make construction green because you are recycling the materials that were used to make the tools.
2. Solar Panels
If there is an ultimate green tool, it is the solar panel. Solar panels absorb the energy from the sun and convert the same into clean and green energy. Solar panels are not only used for home appliances. They are also used to power lights and even heat the water in hot tubs. If you are knowledgeable enough in rewiring, you can even use solar power to charge green-powered tools.
3. Battery-operated drills
Although using a power drill helps shorten the time you need for drilling holes, you still have to deal with the stretched power cord. This is why a rechargeable or battery-operated drill keeps you away from the annoying cord while at the same time packs a lot of power without using a lot of energy to operate.
4. Electric or Rechargeable Chainsaws
Chainsaws are useful especially when cutting big wood. Unfortunately, the fuel which powers chainsaws is a pollutant. One alternative is using an electric chainsaw or rechargeable chainsaw. Unlike the fuel-powered chainsaw, electric chainsaws or rechargeable chainsaws can be used even indoors without worrying about producing toxic fumes.
5. Biodegradable Materials
Biodegradable materials are also tools for green construction. They can change the disposal process into something more eco-friendly. Using products that naturally break down without releasing dangerous fumes or toxins are even better.
6. Cool Roofs
Cool roofs are also tools for green construction. They are designed for increased solar reflectance and lesser thermal emittance. They reflect more of the sun’s rays while also preventing the warm or cool air inside from escaping to the top of the building. Of course, when you also have access doors and one of them is on your roof, you also need to use green materials for them. Cool roofs reduce the strain on air conditioning systems, thus also reducing the emissions from the heating or cooling system.
