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According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, buildings in the U.S. account for 12% of total national fresh water consumption. Reducing the need for water reduces stress on the local water infrastructure and leaves reservoirs and aquatic ecosystems intact. Renewable Energy Trust.
- Establish a recycling program for glass, aluminum, plastic, paper and newspaper
- Use washable, biodegradable or recyclable tableware
- Use recycled and recyclable office supplies
- Utilize “Energy Star” office equipment
- Install compact fluorescent, LED or other long-burning light bulbs throughout offices
- Use a filtered water system or 5-gallon water bottles
- Clean or replace air-conditioning filters on a regular schedule
- Use non-toxic cleaning products
- Post green practices at the jobsite
- Appoint a jobsite representative to serve as a champion for the project and hold other staff accountable for green practices
- Dedicate periodic toolbox talks to green topics
- Communicate jobsite green practices to suppliers and cartage companies
- Request deliveries in bulk (e.g., double-walled containers for liquid materials) to save packaging
- Plan ahead: economize shipments and deliveries, and avoid over-ordering materials
- Purchase green power for jobsite trailers
- Encourage use of alternate transportation to jobsites: a company-supplied van, public transportation, walking or bicycling
- Minimize amount of paper drawings used at jobsite (i.e., partial sets, sharing)
- Procure construction materials within 500 miles of main office
- Purchase construction materials that include recycled material
- Reuse building materials and products
- Use recycled concrete or CCA in lieu of stone
- Keep jobsite clean and free of debris
- Engage a qualified firm to reclaim and recycle acoustical ceiling tile, carpet scraps and wallcovering
- Take surplus material to another job versus throwing it away
- Shred land-clearing debris and use tree mulch for dust control
- Plant interim grass on cleared sites to help control erosion
- Maintain tools and equipment to prolong usable life, instead of discarding and buying new
- Monitor decibel levels to minimize noise pollution
- Make sure equipment meets proper emission standards
- Divert construction waste materials from landfills