At the recent MBI annual convention “World of Modular”, a common theme that emerged from the presenter was the increase in sustainable construction techniques. All things green were discussed and what role modular construction should play in this evolution.
McGraw Hill publishing provided statistics showing that even in a declining construction market, green construction has gained momentum.
| Year | Construction Projects Registered with LEED (%) |
|---|---|
| 2005 | 2% |
| 2010 | 35% |
| 2015 | 48% (Projected) |
The University of Utah as well as Colorado State University presented programs analyzing modular construction from an outsider’s perspective. Both of these universities feel a real paradigm shift to sustainable design and construction is upon us and suggests that modular construction be exploited as being branded “green” due to better waste management in the factory, less site disruption, shorter construction schedules and the ability to repurpose a building after the initial use. As part of the University of Utah presentation, the American Institute of Architect’s (AIA) goal for sustainable construction were outlined.
| Year | AIA Sustainable Construction Goal |
|---|---|
| 2010 | 50% reduction in building’s fossil fuel usage |
| 2018 | 100% renewable material utilization |
| 2030 | 100% carbon neutral buildings |
While these goals are very robust and are not likely to be achieved in the desired timeframe, it certainly shows where the design community is headed.
What this shows me is design and construction firms have been gearing up to act responsibly and embrace sustainable construction techniques before the IgCC was ever made public. The onerous requirements to small building owners and small business brought on by the IgCC are yet another example of government attempting to mandate something that should be established by the free market. As the economy recovers, more and more building owners will explore green construction and seek LEED certifications for their new projects.
