Achieving net zero operational and embodied carbon with lean design and modern methods of construction.
Improving diversity and attracting young workers into construction.Understanding how we can attract more people into the sector is vitally important when we consider shaping the future of the construction industry.
Although it’s widely recognised that there aren’t enough women and minorities joining construction, Professor Glass says this important issue has been noted and there are people trying to rectify this situation.She also believes academics and researchers could generate enthusiasm by sharing what attracted them to this stimulating, fascinating space, and discussing what motivates them to stay.. We also need to take stock of what competencies are needed in the construction industry, and acknowledge that digital skills must be made a priority.The UK government's decision to bring coding into the national curriculum means we now have digitally enabled young people coming through with these important skills.
In principle, upon graduation that new workforce is just as available to the construction industry as to any other sector, but we need to attract them into construction at the right time, or they’ll go elsewhere.Similarly, while it is certainly important to maintain a focus on bringing apprentices and young people into the industry, we also need to prioritise graduates and master’s degree students.
These are the people with the higher level skills who can land straight into management roles of organisations and really make significant shifts in how things are done.
Moreover, organisations need to create space for people with these skills, because this isn’t always the case at the moment.. It’s also important to acknowledge the work that is already being done in this area.We can demonstrate that early sustainable impact can have an exponentially positive impact on carbon savings and the creation of our sustainable future.. Second-hand, locally sourced materials can influence design.
This might be re-using existing raised flooring, using demolition crush material for a piling mat, or re-using existing steel columns.A pre-demolition audit of an existing building highlights reusable and recyclable materials.
Where materials can be reused, these should be considered for reuse on the same or a local site, thereby reducing material miles and facilitating a more sustainable construction process.Although the circular economy market is in its infancy, by considering material reuse during the earliest design stages we can help build that marketplace.