ABSTRACT

This chapter describes opportunities in the construction phase of project delivery that apply to infrastructure, building and industrial projects alike. It provides an overview of the changing nature of construction services, followed by a range of strategies that can be incorporated to improve project sustainability, from pre-construction through turnover of the project at the end of construction. The chapter covers best practices for site development; earthworks and underground construction; temporary construction; prefabrication and modularization; green materials and specifications; materials handling and utilization; commissioning, testing and balancing; and resource recovery. It explores measures to achieve this goal, including ecosystem protection and restoration, sedimentation and erosion control, stormwater management and control of fugitive emissions before, during and following the construction process. Best practices include: workers should be instructed regarding the proper, efficient and safe use of these systems, and should be sure to turn off all temporary equipment when it is needed.