1.6 sustainable construction methods

Question 1

why are sustainable construction methods needed

Answer 1

the construction and built environment industry contributes to 40% of co2 emissions and 36% of fossil fuel usage

Question 2

what is sustainable construction

Answer 2

construction by methods which meet the demands of present generations and dont compromise the demands of future generations

Question 3

benefits of sustainable construction

Answer 3

• improve energy efficiency
• use sustainable sourced materials
• reduce waste
• reduce pollution
• protect natural environment

Question 4

what measures can be taken to prevent pollution to the natural environment during construction

Answer 4

• minimizing land disturbance (leaving maximum vegetation cover)
• dust control measures (mesh screens, fine water sprays)
• using non toxic paints, solvents, and hazardous materials
• segregating and monitoring toxic substances
• collecting generated wastewater
• avoidance of burning
• reducing noise pollution

Question 5

what does the term carbon emissions mean

Answer 5

the total volume of co2 released into the atmosphere

Question 6

name some sustainable materials which building frames, walls, and roofs are made of

Answer 6

• wood
• steel
• reclaimed bricks
• straw bales
• wool
• reclaimed tiles, slates and shingles

Question 7

drawbacks of using landfills

Answer 7

• soil and groundwater contamination
• occupation of land
• damage to roads
• air pollution

Question 8

drawbacks of using incineration

Answer 8

• harmful gases
• air pollution (dust & particulates lead to respiratory problems and global dimming)

Question 9

sustainable methods of using waste

Answer 9

• recycling
• reusing

Question 10

what is a brownfield site

Answer 10

• area intended for planned development which have been built on before

Question 11

benefits of brownfield sites

Answer 11

• easier to obtain planning permission
• existing access to infrastructure
• favored to build on by government to prevent loss of rural land
• can prevent environmental health hazards

Question 12

drawbacks of brownfield sites

Answer 12

• may need to be cleared before land can be built on (uses extra money, time, and energy)
• land can be very expensive in city centers
• may have become environmentally important for local wildlife
• development needs to consider existing structures

Question 13

whats a greenfield site

Answer 13

• land not built on before

Question 14

benefits of greenfield sites

Answer 14

• new buildings have greater flexibilty in design process
• tend to be cheaper
• few cleanup costs
• expands city/town local economy
• more pleasant environment and less congestion

Question 14

drawbacks of greenfield sites

Answer 14

• new roads and infrastructure connections required
• natural beauty may be lost
• can take long to gain planning permission
• increases pollution and traffic congestion