Why Your Construction Firm Should Go Green

Air pollution is becoming more and more of a problem all over the world. While the conversation about this issue is often focused on cars, buses, and motorcycles, the construction industry is another big culprit.

From 2019 onwards, the introduction of new energy codes will encourage contractors to make greener choices. In the meantime, though, construction firms can take steps to get ahead of the new codes and start cleaning up their act today.

The Challenge of Going Green in Construction

The problem facing many firms is that managing construction sites can be a complex and high-pressure task. Challenges include ensuring that all workers have the right training, adhering to all the relevant laws and regulations, keeping noise levels to a minimum, and operating equipment and machinery efficiently and effectively.

Failing to look after equipment and machinery can cause them to depreciate much faster and result in more frequent engine repairs or replacements. Though some wear and tear is inevitable, poor management can lead to increased maintenance costs and unnecessary emissions.

For example, during the hot summer months, equipment can become clogged with dust so filters need to be cleaned regularly. During the winter, exposure to the cold means the engines will take longer to warm, which means they'll be running for longer and emitting more harmful nitrogen oxides into the air.

There's also the issue of transporting equipment and machinery to and from sites. The fuel used by fleets of vehicles for transportation of this kind is one of the largest emission sources for a construction firm. It has been reported that the fuel use can be the equivalent to the burning of nearly five barrels of oil per worker each year.

Effective Construction Project Management is the Way Forward

So what steps can construction firms take to address the challenge of going green?

To keep emissions to a minimum, firms should limit the number of trips, deliveries and pickups that trucks have to make to and from sites. Equipment and machinery should also be stored in a cool, dry place, to prevent unwelcome damage and to keep engines in the best condition possible.

If managers find themselves hot-footing it from the office to meet suppliers or whenever a problem arises, they should consider setting up a temporary office space on-site. Not only does this enable them to deal with any issues swiftly and manage paperwork at the same time, they'll also be cutting down on their commute and reducing the amount spent on fuel allowance.

How Portable storage Containers Can Help

Given the time constraints and demands of the construction industry, building sites depend heavily on flexibility and mobility.

An ideal solution for helping firms to both go green and deliver projects on time is portable containers placed on-site. PODS containers come in various sizes and are weather-resistant, meaning that they can protect equipment and machinery from the elements when they're not in use or when workers leave for the day. When tools and other items need to be somewhere close by but are not required until a later date, these assets can be stored at one of our nationwide network of PODS storage centers. Did you know we have more than 200 of them in North America alone?

Portable containers for construction firms to reduce their emissions while also improving their operational efficiency on building sites. Containers also allow firms to manage equipment, machinery, and costs more effectively, leading to greener practices and, ultimately, greener businesses too.

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