Sustainability is no more an option but a way of living which we need to rapidly adopt for our survival and sustainability of humanity.

The construction sector accounts for 36% of worldwide energy demand, and 40%of the global energy and process related emissions, according to the International Energy Agency. The world is challenged by climate change, pollution and dwindling supplies of fossil fuels affecting all spheres of human activity. Thus, it is vital to not only adopt the latest sustainable technology and construction methodologies, but also improve the energy efficiency for existing buildings. If we are to build a sustainable future, the construction sector must lead the way forward.

One element of the construction sector that has engaged successfully with sustainability is that of mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems.

These systems are not always the most visible part of a construction project, but they are of enormous significance when it comes to the energy and water requirements of buildings; thus forming an integral part of sustainable construction.

Six SDGs that are of particular relevance to the construction industry. Focusing on these goals, the industry can contribute towards sustainability by aligning its actions with the UN’s SDGs:

• SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

SGD 6 is focused on ensuring the availability of clean water and sanitation for all. There is water scarcity in many parts of the world, in certain areas made worse by the increasing desertification caused by climate change. The access to fresh water is also a challenge in the majority part of the world and energy intensive techniques such as desalination is used to have access to clean water.

In our daily activities, by using waste water reclaim technologies we can reduce our dependence on fresh water on a large scale. Consistent is involved in multiple waste-water reclamation projects wherein the grey water from the residences, industrial buildings, and car wash facilities was recycled and reused for flushing, industrial processes, and irrigation.

• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

  SDG 7 concerns access to affordable and clean energy for all.

  Energy can be made affordable by lowering energy usage, and by reducing the cost of units of energy.

  In our daily activities, by using waste water reclaim technologies we can reduce our dependence on fresh water on a large scale. Consistent is involved in multiple waste-water reclamation projects wherein the grey water from the residences, industrial buildings, and car wash facilities was recycled and reused for flushing, industrial processes, and irrigation.

Architects, civil consultants and MEP consultants can all play significant parts in designing an energy efficient building.

Gas-powered kitchen equipment and energy-efficient fixtures reduced the energy consumption of the building by 40%.

The other way towards affordable energy for all is to maximise adoption of renewable and clean energy, such as solar, wind, and tidal and geothermal energy.

But while these forms of energy are practically infinite or renewable, they are not always reliable. To deal with this, energy storage systems are required which can be expensive and may require scarce natural resources. However, Concentrated Solar Power plants with molten-salt reactors or batteries, pumped hydro storage facilities and thermal storage for district cooling facilities are some of the energy storage systems that can be implemented.

• SDG 9 : Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

SDG 9 notifies the importance of improving the energy consumption curve of the industrial sector. 33% of global primary energy use and 40% of the global energy-related CO2 emission belong to the Industrial sector, as per the United Nations Industrial Development Organization.

SMEs consume 30% of global industry energy and have a higher potential of energy savings through implementation of cogeneration methodologies and improving process energy efficiency.

It is reported that the energy intensity of most industrial processes is at least 50% higher than the theoretical maximum. It is also identified that there is a significant potential in reducing the industrial energy by 10 to 40%.

On-roof solar PV panel installation, efficient lighting system design, reclaiming waste heat for cooling through absorption chillers, preheating water to boilers through heat reclaim from flue gases are some energy conservation techniques implemented by Consistent in its industrial projects.

• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

SDG 11 involves making human settlements sustainable, safe, and resilient. Again, the designers of MEP systems have an important part to play, especially where they are able to minimise water and energy use.

• Cities can be more sustainable if their buildings are built with detailed engineering, adept use of standards to optimise the building systems, digital building management systems and energy saving technologies such as smart lighting and HVAC systems. Smart traffic and waste management that minimise pollution also promote sustainable approach to city traffics.

• Safe cities are made up of buildings that promote human health – for instance, by ensuring water is clean, air quality is high and the safety of occupants is preserved with appropriate lighting, surveillance and security. Concepts of 15 minute cities are also being currently implemented to further reduce the vehicular movement and promote sustainable lifestyle.

• Cities and communities become resilient when they place less load on external resources such as water and energy, and when the buildings they contain are built to minimise the effects of a crisis, such as a pandemic or earthquake.

• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

SDG 12 focuses on sustainable consumption and production patterns – doing better with less and wasting less. As with water, the mantra should be “reduce, reuse, recycle”. Lower energy and water use achieved through sophisticated design and appropriate digital technology leads to responsible production. It is vital that we ensure sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources.

However, ultimately only a change of mindset among the end users can lead to more responsible consumption. We need to realign the way we live to achieve this, by involving and educating every individual to play his part in the quest to achieve a sustainable future.

• SDG 13: Climate Action

The most prominent facet of the sustainability agenda is to slow climate change, and this is the focus of SDG 13. Climate change has become one of the greatest threats to human existence, which is visible through the havoc wreaked by the hurricanes, forest fires, floods, etc.

Use of renewables in building design, energy efficient techniques and cutting-edge engineering and design can help slow down the climate change. Part of this involves ensuring that scarce resources are not squandered and the environment is not polluted.

CONCLUSION

In climate action, as in other areas of sustainability, progress is slow. But there is progress. By working together, the construction industry can reduce its share of global energy use and CO₂ emissions, helping to deliver a healthier and greener planet for us all.

Talk to us to design your next green space!