In recent years, green construction has become a popular option as consumers and businesses alike become more and more aware of the needs of the planet. While it may not be realistic to change all of a company’s business practices overnight, it’s possible to make several small changes and still have a huge impact on the world we live in. Not only will these changes make for a cleaner, greener planet; they can also improve your bottom line.
Sometimes long nights on construction sites are inevitable and excellent lighting is crucial for producing quality work and preventing worksite injuries or accidents. Traditional floodlights are typically used, but they can be a huge drain on natural resources, widening a company’s carbon footprint. Instead, opt for LED lighting solutions for an efficient way to light up the night so your employees can continue to work. While these bulbs may cost more up front, LED bulbs also have a longer life, which means fewer bulbs will need to be purchased each year, saving time and money over the course of several jobs.
By choosing to recycle building materials and reclaiming parts of structures to be demolished, contractors can have a huge impact by keeping usable items out of landfills. Plan for the pre- and post-demolition recovery of reusable or recyclable materials, but be sure to include the demolitions contractor in the conversation so materials can be collected quickly and efficiently. Items like windows, cabinets doors can be taken to organizations like Habitat for Humanity where they will be used to help volunteers build homes for families in need. By choosing to minimize waste, contractors, the community, and the planet can all benefit.
Encourage clients to choose local options for sourcing materials, contractors and services. Encourage this process by partnering with reputable local businesses to reduce the carbon footprint in the community. For example, by encouraging a company to choose cabinets from locally sourced lumber and crafted by a local cabinetmaker, you reduce transportation costs and emissions from transporting both the lumber and the final product. Think of relationships your company has with other local contractors and manufacturers and consider who could be a valuable partner.
Many contractors provide service to HVAC units, which can be one of the biggest drains on natural resources for both private and commercial structures. By ensuring that owners have well-maintained, energy-efficient HVAC systems, owners can save money, which can often be enough to support the maintenance costs of the units. The same goes for these companies. While it is not directly related to the work done on construction sites, contractors can make their company greener by maintaining the HVAC systems at their offices to reduce their carbon footprint and save money.
Are their ways to go paperless in the office? There are many ways to go green on the administrative side of the construction industry. Are you still using paper applications to fill positions? Are learning certifications still completed with a pen? How does your office file new employee information and compliance documentation? By using talent management software, companies can significantly reduce the amount of paper they use in a given day.
The BirdDogHR Talent Management Suite is a valuable resource for many companies looking to streamline their HR processes and reduce paper use in their office. Contact us for more information or to schedule a demo today if you’re interested in helping your company go just a little bit greener.