Future of Green Construction: A Career Path to Explore

Last Updated on September 19, 2024

The future of construction is dependent on many things. One of which is our environment. Another of which is our planet. When combined, we are faced with a new future – the green future. The way in which we use our materials and the way in which we build. All of these contribute to a better future. If you are looking to move into the world of construction, then it is important to know how the industry may change. This way you can study what you need to, and learn much more. Once you are aware of how things are progressing, you can work within any part of the industry, in any country. You could find international construction jobs that align with your skills and value. However, you must first also be aware of the skills you may need and learn the foundations of green construction. 

Ecological building 

Ecological building means using building materials that can be recycled or regrown, and have a favorable CO2 balance. They do not pollute the environment, such as wood. Glass, steel or concrete, on the other hand, are considered energy-intensive. Even the production of the building materials itself should consume as little energy as possible. And the whole thing is low in pollutants or, better still, free of pollutants. This with the ulterior motive: What is good for the environment is also good for the people who live in the house. Many construction companies now support the use of building materials that can be reused.  It is known as a circular economy. The use of regional and domestic building materials enables fewer CO2 emissions. Many people do not know the number of chemicals in building materials. Aggregates in concrete against moisture, against mold, for quick-drying, for durability. This may even include PVC floors, windows, and the paints for steel. In addition, the production of cement consumes an incredible amount of energy. It also dramatically destroys the environment.

The concept of green building does not only include energy-saving measures. It encompasses all areas, from planning to construction itself. It also includes maintenance and up to and including disposal in the event of a building being demolished. Some guidelines include, for example:

• The reduction of the sealing of construction areas
• The use of ecological building materials that are manufactured, sustainably. As well as being transported, processed and disposed of in the most resource-conserving way possible
• The most robust natural materials are considered in many forms. They include slate, cork, hemp, loam, clay, wool, sisal and the like indoors and outdoors
• The use of wood from regional, sustainable forestry

After all, sustainability will play an even more decisive role in the award of contracts in the future than it does today. But more companies are becoming aware of this and therefore new minds that think on their feet will be well rewarded. Individuals that are savvy with technology and graphic design will also be rewarded. New technologies within the industry are growing constantly. Modern, digital technologies, such as “Building Information Modeling”, or BIM are used. This is the software-based planning and construction of buildings. All building data is digitally recorded and combined, could help with implementation. In the end, a virtual-visualized model is created so that all parties can see the new green model. 

BIM has been used for some time in civil engineering, but also in road and track construction and in facility management. The main advantage: BIM facilitates smoother planning and implementation, which ultimately lowers costs. But digital building management can also bring competitive advantages to construction companies. With BIM, you can optimize the proportion of window area to simulate various ventilation systems. You can also evaluate the sustainability of building materials. This means that you will need good computer skills and the ability to want to learn. This is an exciting career path to follow as we see such a transformation. 

Green building in Sweden and Switzerland

In Sweden, there is an enormous amount of catching up to do with both energy-efficient renovations and sustainable new housing. 640,000 apartments are to be built by 2027. The residential units from the million-dollar program from 1965-1975 urgently need repairs. However, there is a lack of appropriate companies and solutions. Sustainable, ecological building is becoming more and more important in Switzerland. It is about energy supply/efficiency, environmental protection. It is also about the health of the residents, comfort and quality. There is a high demand for buildings and infrastructure, for the development of quarters and areas as well as for spatial planning. One focus is on the renovation and further development of buildings. Sweden and Switzerland are looking for contractors with innovative “green” products and solutions. German companies and craftsmen in the construction industry enjoy a good reputation in both countries. They are without a doubt leading the way for green building. 

What is a sustainable building?

These factors can be defined as the following. Minimizing the consumption of energy and resources. Reducing the consumption of space and placing as little strain on nature as possible. These are the three important pillars of ecologically sustainable construction. From this perspective, the building quality is assessed with regard to the effects on the environment. Sustainable buildings encompass all areas from the choice of the property to the architecture and energy. It also includes water and material efficiency, operation, maintenance and waste avoidance. It is important to become a resource-efficient operation and finally deconstruction after a period of use of 50 – 100 years. However, “sustainable” does not only mean “eco”. Because “green buildings” are “smart”. Green, intelligent buildings, automated high-tech ensures the efficient use of energy and resources. It also promotes a pleasant atmosphere with a high quality of life and productivity.

Technologies that focus on clean energy generation, and degradable materials control company’s budgets. More and more project developers are recognizing and appreciating the benefits. For example, the lower life cycle costs of sustainable buildings. Therefore, it is certainly the future, and the jobs within the industry will certainly continue to grow this decade.