The Importance of Reducing Construction Emissions in Cities
The Sawa residential building in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, is made from wood
Hollandse Hoogte/Shutterstock
Cities around the world are facing the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from construction activities to avoid exceeding a 2°C temperature increase. This requires significant changes in building design, materials used, or both.
According to Shoshanna Saxe from the University of Toronto, countries like Canada, the US, and Australia are experiencing a housing deficit and increasing construction demands. The challenge lies in ramping up construction while minimizing pollution.
Saxe believes that achieving this goal is possible by leveraging existing knowledge and skills in sustainable construction. By focusing on building more environmentally friendly structures and reducing wasteful practices, cities can meet emission targets.
Construction contributes 10 to 20 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, with cement production being a major culprit. To address this, cities must assess their current construction emissions and develop strategies to align with global climate goals.
Keagan Rankin, also from the University of Toronto, conducted a study on 1033 cities to estimate their construction emissions and projected reductions needed to stay within carbon budgets. The findings emphasize the importance of efficient housing designs and materials to curb emissions.
While alternative materials like wood or recycled concrete can help, Saxe highlights the significance of good design in minimizing emissions. By optimizing space and structure, buildings can be more energy-efficient throughout their lifespan.
Rankin suggests that cities have the power to drive change in construction practices and play a crucial role in emission reduction efforts. However, many cities lack the resources to establish emission budgets and require support in this area.
Prajal Pradhan from the University of Groningen stresses the need to view emissions from a city-wide perspective to meet climate targets effectively. Susan Roaf from Heriot Watt University adds that buildings should be designed for long-term sustainability, incorporating features like natural ventilation to reduce emissions.
Saxe emphasizes the importance of prioritizing construction projects that align with climate goals, such as reducing investments in oil and gas infrastructure. By making strategic choices in construction, cities can accommodate growing populations without increasing emissions.
Topics:
- climate change/
- sustainability
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