7 ways contractors can work sustainability into their procurement practices

A little planning can go a long way towards making projects more socially responsible and environmentally sound.

Construction is typically dirty business for the environment. Building construction and operations combined account for almost 40% of all carbon emissions worldwide, making it the single most polluting sector, according to the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction. Mitigating these emissions is an opportunity to have an enormous impact.

The majority of construction-related CO2 emissions — about 11% of the global total — are associated with manufacturing building materials, transporting materials to construction sites and the actual construction process, according to a UN Environment Global Status report. A key area where contractors can build more sustainability into a project is in the procurement process.

In addition, clients increasingly are asking for projects that resist extreme weather, produce minimal waste and are socially responsible.

Here are seven tips for greener building from the beginning:

1. Get buy-in from the client
2. Connect with the public
3. Examine your supply chain and buying culture
4. Prioritize water protection and conservation
5. Energy efficiency from beginning to end
6. Reduce, repurpose or recycle materials
7. Create a sustainability plan

Read more at Construction Dive.