Thammasat University students interested in environmental studies, ecology, architecture, futurology, urban studies, and related subjects may find it useful to participate in a free 21 January Zoom webinar on Forging the path to a Sustainable Built Environment.
The event, on Tuesday, 21 January 2025 at 7pm Bangkok time, is organized by the Institute of Advanced Studies, Loughborough University, the United Kingdom.
The TU Library collection includes books about different aspects of environmental sustainability.
Students are invited to register at this link.
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Z9m8mQKxT-uXp6kWGTBgRg#/registration
The event announcement states:
IAS Visiting Fellows Professor Liberato Ferrara & Dr Estefania Cuenca Asensio are each delivering a seminar on their research.
Professor Liberato Ferrara “A holistic approach to sustainability of concrete: upgrading the perspective from material to structural design and life cycle assessment.”
The talk introduces a novel conceptual design approach for concrete structures within a holistic life cycle framework. Key to adopting material innovations in the construction industry, this conceptual design approach breaks from the traditional structural performance assessment based solely on the misleading metrics of material unit, volume, cost and environmental impact at the time of construction.
This overcomes current challenges with Ultra High-Performance Concretes, often seen as extremely high strength, without considering their exceptional durability and the implications in the asset’s design, construction, use and maintenance.
Dr. Estefania Cuenca-Asensio “Towards a more sustainable built environment. Recent experiences on concrete recycling.”
This seminar discusses recent experiences implementing circular economy concepts in the concrete construction industry. The research carried out ranges from the recycling of Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC), intended as construction and demolition waste using different fractions of recycled aggregate obtained from crushed concrete, in substitution of both natural aggregates and cement, to the recycling of Coal Mine Waste Geomaterials (CMWG). Recent results of the investigations that addressed the feasibility of the proposed technologies will be shown.
The website of Atlantis Fiber observes:
Sustainability in Concrete
FAQ
- What is sustainable concrete?
Sustainable concrete is produced using environmentally-friendly materials and methods that minimize its impact on the environment. It involves reducing carbon emissions, conserving natural resources, and improving the durability and longevity of concrete structures.
- Why is sustainability in concrete important?
Traditional concrete production practices have a significant impact on the environment, from high carbon emissions to the depletion of natural resources. Sustainable concrete is important because it reduces the carbon footprint of the construction industry and contributes to a more sustainable future.
- What are some strategies for creating sustainability in concrete?
There are several strategies for creating sustainable concrete, including using alternative materials such as fly ash or slag, reducing waste in the production process, implementing energy-efficient practices, and using sustainable design principles.
- Is sustainable concrete more expensive than traditional concrete?
While the initial cost of sustainable concrete may be slightly higher than traditional concrete, its long-term benefits outweigh the initial cost. Sustainable concrete is more durable, requires less maintenance, and has a longer lifespan, which can lead to cost savings over time. Additionally, the environmental benefits of sustainable concrete can help reduce long-term costs associated with environmental impacts.
Concrete is the backbone of modern infrastructure and has played a crucial role in the development of our cities and societies. However, sustainability in concrete production practices has a significant impact on the environment, from high carbon emissions to the depletion of natural resources.
In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of concrete. Creating sustainable concrete is crucial for the construction industry to reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. This article will explore the key strategies and best practices for creating sustainable concrete, from choosing environmentally-friendly materials to implementing sustainable design principles.
Worldwide Sustainability in Concrete
- Understanding the Importance of Sustainability in Concrete
Why Sustainability in Concrete is Crucial for the Concrete Industry
Concrete is the world’s most widely used construction material, but with its high carbon footprint, it has a significant impact on the environment. The production of cement, a primary ingredient in concrete, accounts for approximately 7% of global CO2 emissions. Therefore, adopting sustainable concrete practices is crucial for reducing the environmental impact of the construction industry.
The Benefits of Sustainable Concrete
Sustainable concrete practices not only help protect the environment but also have economic and social benefits. By reducing energy consumption, sourcing materials locally and reducing waste, sustainable concrete can be more cost-effective and increase the durability of buildings. Furthermore, sustainable concrete practices support a healthier environment, mitigate climate change, and improve the quality of life for communities around the world.
- Implementing Sustainable Concrete Practices in the Construction Industry
Best Practices for Sustainable Concrete Production
Implementing best practices for sustainable concrete production is essential. Concrete producers can reduce the amount of water and cement needed in production, utilize alternative fuels in the manufacturing process, and minimize transportation distances. Additionally, incorporating innovative technologies, such as carbon capture and storage, can capture and store carbon emissions, reducing the industry’s carbon footprint.
Utilizing Local Materials for Sustainable Concrete Construction
Another sustainable practice is utilizing locally sourced materials for concrete production. This reduces transportation distances, results in lower carbon emissions, and supports the local economy. By using locally sourced materials, such as recycled aggregates from construction sites, concrete producers can reduce waste and minimize environmental impact.
Reducing Waste in the Concrete Production Process
Waste reduction is a critical aspect of sustainable concrete production. By reusing, recycling, and recovering waste products from the concrete production process, producers can significantly reduce waste in the construction industry. Sustainable practices include reducing water usage, properly disposing of hazardous waste, and promoting safe work practices.
Sustainability in Concrete – The Lifecycle
Infographic Credit: Climate Works Foundation
- Choosing Environmentally-Friendly Materials for Concrete Production
Alternatives to Traditional Concrete Materials
To reduce the carbon footprint of concrete, producers can use alternative materials such as fly ash, slag cement, and silica fume to replace some of the cement used in production. These materials have a lower CO2 footprint and result in stronger, more durable concrete. Furthermore, incorporating recycled materials like glass and plastic can add another layer of sustainability to concrete production.
The Importance of Sourcing Materials for Sustainability in Concrete
Sourcing materials sustainably is vital for the concrete industry’s sustainability. Concrete producers should work closely with suppliers to ensure that they source materials responsibly and sustainably. This includes using raw materials from low-impact mines, ensuring suppliers follow ethical and sustainable practices, and avoiding materials from high-carbon footprints.
- Reducing Carbon Footprint with Sustainable Concrete
The Role of Carbon Capture in Sustainable Concrete
Carbon capture and storage is an innovative technology that can help reduce the carbon footprint of concrete production. This technology captures CO2 emissions from the production process, then compresses and stores the carbon underground, reducing its impact on the environment. Incorporating carbon capture into concrete production could reduce the industry’s carbon footprint significantly.
Reducing Energy Consumption in Concrete Production
Reducing energy consumption is another crucial aspect of sustainable concrete production. Adopting energy-efficient technologies such as solar panels, wind turbines, and energy-efficient lighting in production facilities can significantly reduce the industry’s carbon footprint. Additionally, using energy-efficient transportation methods and reducing the distance between the production site and the construction site can help reduce energy consumption in concrete production. […]
In conclusion, creating sustainable concrete is crucial for reducing the environmental impact of the construction industry. From sourcing environmentally-friendly materials to implementing innovative technologies, there are many strategies that can be employed to produce sustainable concrete. By adopting these practices, we can reduce carbon emissions, conserve natural resources, and contribute to a more sustainable future. […]
(All images courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)