According to the EPA, 23% of greenhouse gases are emitted by industry. With industrial properties having such a huge impact on the environment, business owners, are well-positioned to guiding a change in the future course of our environment. Fortunately, technology has made it possible to make every building more eco-friendly, whether you’re building it new or upgrading an old one. Here are some tips on how to make this happen in your industrial building.
Use Eco-Friendly Construction Materials
When constructing a new industrial property, using sustainable materials can help you build with less impact on the Earth’s resources and less toxicity. Examples of this are using recycled steel instead of virgin steel and using wood fibre insulation instead of polyiso. For a full treatment of this topic read our Green Building Guide to Sustainable Materials.
If you’re doing demolition as you renovate your property, consider deconstruction as an opportunity to reuse, resale or recycling these materials that would otherwise go to the dump. It is more costly and time consuming but there are companies that specialize in deconstruction that can help. And you can get money back from selling your old materials.
It doesn’t matter the age of the building, even old buildings can be made more energy-efficient if you use techniques that make the building envelope more airtight and better insulated.
Build With Modernized Techniques
You can significantly reduce energy waste and CO2 emissions levels during construction if you choose a prefab method of construction instead of a traditional one. This method creates prefabricated sections and even entire buildings if needed, so you can have better control over the process.
Get the Green Building Project Checklist
Use this handy checklist on your next project to keep track of all the ways you can make your home more energy-efficient and sustainable.
Modular building also helps you save money and cut back on finishing time, which will allow you to concentrate on growing your business. Another positive side of prefab buildings is that they are often made from recycled materials, and they are more efficient with materials, having been built in factories, thus reducing the demolition waste that traditional construction generates.
Integrate Green Solutions
Even if your budget only allows you to make small changes around your property, you can still make a difference in helping the environment. Replacing harsh chemical cleaners with greener products can help preserve nature and the health of your employees as well. Similarly, using a plant-based filter on your HVAC systems is a great way to reduce CO2 and make the air they breathe much healthier. Due to their natural absorbing capacities, these filters are more efficient in removing common air contaminants.
When acquiring materials or equipment for your industrial property, consider buying used whenever possible. Opting for second-hand machines, for example, can have many benefits, even if buying them is an entirely different experience from ordering new ones. With a bit of research, you can find heavy equipment dealers who can help you source some slightly used models, so you can reduce your consumption and your costs at the same time.
Reduce Energy Waste
Another budget-friendly option that will save you a large amount on your. With just a minimal investment on your part, you significantly reduce heat loss through the windows. Plus, this works both ways because the sun won’t heat up the inside during the summer as much. If you have the budget replace your windows for new energy-efficient low-e triple pane windows.
Of course, you can also reduce energy waste by simply turning off any machines that are not being used or switching from traditional light bulbs to LED lighting. Changing your printing practices by focusing on digital and using less paper will also save costs on printer maintenance.
Invest in Renewable Energy Sources
Depending on your budget, you should consider investing in a system that will allow you to implement alternative energy sources. To make this investment as inexpensive as possible, it’s a good idea to do a little bit of research on the most convenient form of energy you can use on your property.
In some areas, it’s best to use solar panels, while in others, wind turbines could be the better choice. If you rely on transport for your business, switching to biofuels may represent a viable option for achieving a higher level of sustainability. While going the renewable route can still seem pretty expensive, remember how much renewable energy sources will reduce your energy costs. Over time you can recoup your investment.
Operating a greener industrial property can have multiple benefits for your business. Implementing some eco-friendly energy consumption methods can save you a lot on your energy bills. By lowering the levels of pollution your company produces, you can worry less about how the workings of the property affect its surroundings. And finally, with your eco-conscious business practices, you will gain your customers’ trust and earn a reputation as a company that’s investing in the future.
Feature image: Pixabay; Image 1: Skitterphoto
