5 Ways to be Environmentally Friendly on a Construction Site

It is important to be environmentally conscious on a construction site in order to minimize the negative impact a construction project can have on the environment. Many construction materials and equipment produce a lot of waste, cause air and water pollution, and disturb natural habitats. By taking steps to be more eco-friendly on a construction site, such as using recycled materials, minimizing water usage, ensuring proper BMP's are in place, and properly disposing of waste, we can help to protect the environment for future generations.

1) Reduce, reuse, and recycle materials on site.

Reducing, reusing, and recycling material on a construction site is an essential part of achieving a sustainable project. Reducing the amount of material used on the construction site can be accomplished by utilizing more efficient construction methods, such as prefabrication and pre-assembly. Reusing material can be accomplished by utilizing salvaged or reclaimed materials and by salvaging materials from the demolition of existing structures. Recycling material can be accomplished by sorting and segregating materials on the construction site and sending them to a recycling facility. This will help to reduce the amount of waste that is sent to landfills. Additionally, having a construction waste management plan in place can help to ensure that all material is properly disposed of or recycled. By reducing, reusing, and recycling material on a construction site, you can contribute to the sustainability of the project and help to protect the environment.

2) Minimize water usage

Minimizing water usage on a construction site is not only important for environmental reasons but also for staying within budget. Here are some tips to help you achieve this goal:

• Try to use as little water as possible by using water efficient appliances and fixtures.

• Consider the use of rainwater harvesting systems to capture, store and use rainwater for irrigation, flushing toilets, and other uses.
  

• Reuse water whenever possible. For example, use a grey water system to capture and reuse wastewater for irrigation and other uses.
  

• Have regular maintenance checks of all water systems to ensure they are working properly and are not wasting water.
  

• Educate workers on the importance of minimizing water usage and proper wastewater management.
  

• Make sure all wastewater is properly treated and disposed of in the correct manner. It's important to follow all local regulations and laws when disposing of wastewater.

By following these tips, you can help minimize water usage and ensure proper wastewater management on your construction site.

3) Ensure proper BMP are in place

Best Management Practices (BMPs) are management techniques and operational procedures used to help protect natural resources during construction projects. BMPs reduce the amount of pollution that can be generated during the construction process, and help ensure that environmental regulations are followed. BMPs can vary depending on the project, but some common examples include:

Erosion and Sediment control

This is the practice of managing the movement of soil from one area to another with the goal of preventing or reducing water pollution, soil loss, and other negative impacts on land or water resources. It involves a variety of techniques, such as soil stabilization, vegetation establishment, and the use of sediment traps, catch basin protection and silt fences. These techniques are used to protect water quality, reduce damage to infrastructure, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of land.

Stormwater Management practices

Practices and techniques used to control and manage the flow of stormwater runoff. This can include, but is not limited to, installing permeable pavement, constructing rain gardens, and implementing green roofs. These practices help to reduce the amount of pollutants that enter into water bodies while also helping to reduce flooding and erosion. Additionally, these practices can help to improve local water quality and provide habitat for local wildlife.

Minimizing the impact of construction activities on wildlife and other sensitive areas.

To minimize the impact of construction activities on wildlife and other sensitive areas, it is important to plan ahead and take measures to minimize disruption. For example, use natural barriers such as vegetation to screen construction activities from sensitive areas, avoid construction during periods of high wildlife activity, and employ techniques such as “soft-start” to reduce noise and vibration. Additionally, it is important to ensure that construction activities are carried out in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations. This may include the need to obtain applicable permits and to consult with local conservation organizations and environmental agencies to ensure that construction activities do not upset the natural balance of the local environment. Finally, it is important to be mindful of the potential for construction activities to disturb local wildlife and to take all necessary steps to protect them.

Implementing BMPs on a construction site can help reduce the negative impacts of construction activities and protect the environment.

4) Properly dispose of hazardous materials and ensure that they are not released into the environment.

Properly disposing of hazardous materials is essential to protecting the environment. To do so, it is important to identify the hazardous material, read the disposal instructions carefully, and follow all applicable laws and regulations. Generally, hazardous materials should be collected, contained, and transported to an approved disposal facility or a licensed hazardous waste hauler. Make sure to segregate incompatible materials during the disposal process and to use appropriate containers and packaging materials. Additionally, make sure to label the containers or packaging materials with the type and quantity of materials inside. Finally, you should always follow the instructions of the disposal facility for proper disposal of the hazardous materials. Doing so will help ensure that hazardous materials are not released into the environment.