In the bustling construction landscapes of developing countries, concrete reigns supreme as the backbone of infrastructure development. Yet, this ubiquitous material comes with a significant environmental cost, one that has long been overlooked. A groundbreaking study published in ‘Green Technologies and Sustainability’ (Green Technologies and Sustainability), led by Saman Solaimanian, a Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering from K. N. Toosi University of Technology in Tehran, Iran, sheds light on the environmental risks posed by concrete construction and offers a roadmap for mitigation.
The research, which employed the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), a structured technique for organizing and analyzing complex decisions, reveals that air pollution, specifically dust generation, is the most critical environmental risk. “Air pollution, particularly dust, emerged as the top concern, accounting for nearly 40% of the total environmental risk,” explains Solaimanian. “This is a stark reminder that while concrete construction fuels development, it also chokes the air we breathe.” The study underscores the urgent need for dust suppression strategies to curb this pervasive issue.
Water pollution follows closely, highlighting the significant impact of construction activities on aquatic ecosystems. The research emphasizes the importance of water resource management, including innovative solutions like rainwater harvesting, to minimize water usage and contamination. “Water pollution is a critical concern, and effective management strategies can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of concrete construction,” notes Solaimanian.
The study also addresses resource depletion and solid waste generation, advocating for the use of recycled or demolition waste to reduce reliance on virgin resources. “By integrating recycled materials, we can not only conserve resources but also minimize the amount of solid waste generated,” says Solaimanian. This approach not only addresses environmental concerns but also presents a commercial opportunity for the energy sector, which can invest in recycling technologies and waste management solutions.
The research demonstrates the effectiveness of the AHP method in prioritizing context-specific environmental risks, providing a valuable framework for project managers and policymakers. “The AHP method allows us to make informed decisions based on expert judgment and stakeholder input,” says Solaimanian. “This is crucial for developing sustainable concrete construction practices that balance development needs with environmental conservation.”
This study, published in ‘Green Technologies and Sustainability’, is a wake-up call for the construction industry. It underscores the need for immediate action to mitigate the environmental risks associated with concrete construction. As developing countries continue to urbanize, the findings of this research will shape future developments, driving the adoption of sustainable practices and technologies. The energy sector, in particular, stands to gain from this shift, as it presents opportunities for investment in green technologies and waste management solutions. The future of construction lies in sustainability, and this research is a significant step towards that goal.