In the heart of Semarang, Central Java, a new hotel is set to redefine sustainability in urban infrastructure, and the story behind its construction could reshape how developers approach material selection. The Aruss Hotel, aiming to include a jogging track among its many facilities, initially planned to use Ironwood, renowned for its durability and resistance. However, the environmental implications of this choice led researchers to explore an alternative that could balance sustainability with cost-efficiency.
Nicco Plamonia, a researcher from the Center for Environment and Clean Technology at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) in Indonesia, saw an opportunity to challenge conventional wisdom. “We needed to consider the broader impact of our material choices,” Plamonia explained. “Using Ironwood collectively adds pressure to the rainforests, which is unsustainable in the long run.”
The solution? Andesite stone. This material, also known for its solid and resistant characteristics, offered a more eco-friendly alternative. But the benefits didn’t stop at sustainability. Plamonia and his team conducted a thorough analysis, comparing the cost and installation time of both materials. The results were striking.
Andesite proved to be 73% cheaper than Ironwood, saving the project a substantial IDR 307,031,041. Moreover, the installation time for andesite was significantly shorter, taking only 13 working days compared to Ironwood’s 36 days. “This isn’t just about saving money,” Plamonia noted. “It’s about making smarter, more sustainable choices that benefit both the environment and the bottom line.”
The implications of this research extend far beyond a single hotel project. As urban areas continue to expand, the demand for sustainable infrastructure solutions will only grow. Plamonia’s work, published in the Jurnal Teknik Sipil (Civil Engineering Journal), provides a compelling case for considering the environmental impact and value for money when selecting materials.
For the construction and energy sectors, this research offers a blueprint for balancing sustainability with economic viability. By choosing materials like andesite, developers can reduce their environmental footprint while also saving on costs and time. This dual benefit could drive a shift towards more sustainable practices across the industry.
As Plamonia puts it, “The future of urban infrastructure lies in making choices that are not only good for business but also good for the planet.” This perspective could very well shape the future of construction, encouraging a move towards materials that are both sustainable and cost-effective. The Aruss Hotel in Semarang is more than just a building; it’s a testament to the power of innovative thinking and the potential for sustainable development in the construction industry.