For instance, recycling aluminum cans on the job is an example of a sustainable practice that contributes in a positive way to the bottom line (Shepherd, 2009). Recycling aluminum cans on the jobsite help to feed the local economy as well. These new cost-cutting measures are necessary, as green construction typically drives up the price of a new home by 10% (Shepherd, 2009). Companies must take measures to reduce costs in as many areas as possible.
How Can These New Innovations Affect a Career in the Construction Industry?
Changes within the construction industry will have an impact on those involved in the industry of the future. These new innovations represent changes in attitude toward the job site, project flow and project planning. Those pursuing a job in the construction trades could expect these trends to become the norm, as more pressure is placed on the industry to reform its practices for a greener tomorrow.
The second impact that these new innovations will have on the construction industry is that it will open up new job opportunities within the industry for those that wish to specialize in the new "green industry." The area of green consulting is just beginning to emerge. Traditional construction managers will turn to this new group of professionals more and more for advice and input into project planning.
Green engineers will lead the way in new, more energy efficient products. The need for green will be a key driver of research and development in the manufacturing and construction sectors. They will take old ideas and rework them to fit into the new greener way of building things. Increasing the energy efficiency of appliances is the first step to independence from fossil fuels. Before one can think about running the building with new alternative energy sources, it must as efficient as possible. Reducing waste and excess is the first step in the ability to do this.
The green movement will change the way traditional engineers and project mangers will think about their work. It will also present many new opportunities to introduce new niches into the market. Green engineers can easily invent their own niche within this new emerging market.
Conclusions/Recommendations
The green movement represents the latest trend to sweep the construction industry. It began slowly and has been picking up speed. At this point, it appears that it is here to stay. The construction industry will continue to develop new methods, materials and equipment to help meet the demand of the consumer and government agencies. Many of the concepts and new ideas that are icons of the green movement are not new, but represent a redesign of something old to make it more energy efficient and reflective of the new paradigm.
The well-informed engineer would be wise to stay on top of new innovations in the industry....
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