5 Benefits of Sustainable Constructions

Sustainable construction offers numerous advantages that go well beyond the environmental aspect. Besides contributing to a more sustainable future, choosing sustainability practices in civil construction can bring significant economic and social benefits for owners and users.

Green buildings are designed and implemented with the aim of minimising the use of natural resources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting energy efficiency. They represent a fundamental change in how we think about buildings and their impact on the environment.

1. Energy Savings and Reduction of Operational Costs

One of the main advantages of sustainable construction is the significant energy savings in construction. When properly designed, these buildings consider the strategic use of sunlight, resulting in the maximisation of natural lighting and, consequently, a considerable reduction in the need for artificial lighting.

Natural Ventilation Strategies

Green buildings also use natural ventilation strategies, which can significantly reduce dependence on active cooling systems such as fans and air conditioning, thereby reducing operational costs. Design elements such as well-positioned windows and openings facilitate airflow, keeping the building cool without the need for energy-intensive cooling systems.

Thermal Insulation and Thermal Mass

In colder climates, sustainable construction focuses on effective insulation and thermal mass to keep buildings warm, reducing heating costs. The use of materials with high thermal mass can absorb heat during the day and release it at night, maintaining a comfortable internal temperature and reducing the need for artificial heating.

Integration of Renewable Energy

Additionally, these buildings are designed to integrate renewable energy systems, such as solar panels and wind turbines, further contributing to reducing dependence on non-renewable sources. With this, it is possible to achieve a significant reduction in operational costs, which translates into financial savings for owners.

2. Efficient Water Resource Management

One of the most crucial aspects to ensure sustainability in civil construction is the efficient management of water resources. It is essential to implement measures aimed at collecting and reusing rainwater, a practice that not only helps preserve water resources but also contributes to reducing waste.

Low Consumption Technologies

It is important to highlight the use of low water consumption technologies, such as taps and showers with presence sensors, which provide a more conscious and responsible use of available resources. These technologies can reduce water consumption by up to 30% compared to conventional systems.

Treatment and Reuse Systems

Greywater treatment and water reuse systems are also essential components of green buildings, allowing water to be used multiple times before final disposal.

3. Durability and Comfort of Buildings

Buildings constructed with sustainable techniques have superior durability, which means they require less maintenance and repairs in the long term. Additionally, they are carefully designed to maximise natural light entry, ensure adequate ventilation, and provide thermal and acoustic comfort to occupants.

Indoor Air Quality

One of the main considerations of sustainable buildings is indoor air quality. For this, building materials and finishes with low emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are used, ensuring a healthy environment free of pollutants for occupants.

Ventilation Solutions

Adequate ventilation solutions are implemented to further improve indoor air quality and reduce the concentration of pollutants, creating a healthier and more productive environment for users.

Thermal and Acoustic Comfort

Thermal comfort is optimised through bioclimatic strategies that consider solar orientation, prevailing winds, and local climatic characteristics. Acoustic insulation is also improved through the appropriate selection of materials and construction techniques.

4. Real Estate Appreciation and Social Responsibility

Sustainable construction is in high demand in the real estate market, which means that sustainable properties tend to have a higher value compared to non-sustainable buildings. Investing in green buildings can be an excellent way to enhance your assets.

Market Demand

Studies show that properties with sustainable certifications can have a 10% to 20% higher appreciation compared to the conventional market. Additionally, these properties are easier to lease and sell, representing less time on the market.

Social and Environmental Responsibility

Sustainable construction is a way to demonstrate social and environmental responsibility. More and more consumers are seeking more conscious and sustainable options, and choosing a sustainable property can be a way to meet this demand and contribute to a better future.

5. Positive Impact on the Environment and Health

Sustainable buildings have a significantly lower environmental impact throughout their life cycle. They reduce the carbon footprint, minimise waste generation and promote the responsible use of natural resources.

Carbon Footprint Reduction

Through the use of local materials, efficient construction techniques and integration of renewable energies, green buildings can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 50% compared to conventional constructions.

Health Benefits

Occupants of sustainable buildings frequently report better quality of life, reduction of allergy symptoms and respiratory problems, as well as increased productivity due to better indoor air quality and thermal comfort.

Conclusion: The Future of Construction is Sustainable

In summary, sustainable construction offers various benefits of green building to clients, such as reduced operational costs, greater durability, real estate appreciation, and the opportunity to demonstrate social and environmental responsibility.

By opting for sustainable constructions, you are not only contributing to a more sustainable future, but you can also enjoy significant economic and social advantages.

Sustainability in civil construction represents an important evolution of the sector, promoting environmental preservation and the creation of healthier and more efficient spaces. These practices should be encouraged and adopted on a large scale so that we can build a truly sustainable future.

To learn more about sustainable construction and how it can benefit you and the environment, check out our post on techniques and strategies for building a sustainable building and continue following the blog.