I’m an unlikely advocate championing the end of fast fashion but there’s a compelling reason why all of us who specialise in the Commercial Property sector are taking note, writes Dominic Tomlinson, chartered surveyor and Partner at Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge based estate agents Bracketts.
You may have read that April 22 was Earth Day. The first Earth Day took place in 1970. Since then Earthday.org has been mobilising over 1 billion people annually on Earth Day, and every other day, to protect the planet.
One of the aim of this year’s Earth Day was to demand an end to fast fashion. It takes 3,781 litres of water to make one pair of jeans, according to the UN’s Environment Programme, taking into account cotton production, manufacture, transport and washing.
My response to this is to suggest that anyone under 40 can make do with one decent pair. Anyone over 40? Let’s be honest with ourselves. It’s not a great look, is it?
The point of Earth Day is that it makes us focus on our personal and professional lives. By the end of 2024 an historic UN treaty on plastics, is expected to be agreed by the end of 2024. More than 50 countries, including the UK, have called for an end to plastic pollution by 2040.
Everyone’s aware that single use plastic is a bad thing but in the construction industry efforts to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint are well advanced. Plastic has long been a go-to material in construction due to its versatility and affordability. However, its environmental impact is undeniable. To combat this, the industry is embracing alternatives that are eco-friendlier without compromising quality.
One approach gaining traction is the use of recycled plastics and biodegradable materials. From recycled plastic lumber for decking to biodegradable polymers for packaging, these alternatives offer a sustainable twist to conventional choices.
Natural materials like timber, bamboo, and hemp are experiencing a renaissance in construction. These resources are renewable, carbon-sequestering, and boast impressive sustainability credentials. By opting for timber over steel or concrete, builders are reducing their carbon footprint significantly.
Modern Methods of Construction (MMC)
MMC and modular construction isn’t just about speed; it’s also about sustainability. By prefabricating components off-site, builders minimize waste and optimize material usage. This approach is ideal for incorporating recycled or low-impact materials seamlessly into construction projects.
Cutting-edge technologies are driving innovation in sustainable construction materials. From 3D printing with recycled plastics to nano-engineered materials like graphene, the possibilities are endless. Carbon capture and utilization (CCU) techniques are also gaining traction, turning CO2 emissions into valuable construction materials.
The UK construction industry is on a mission to build sustainably, and reducing plastic usage and carbon footprint are top priorities. By embracing recycled materials, turning to nature for inspiration, and leveraging innovative technologies, builders are paving the way for a greener future. As these practices become mainstream, we can expect to see a transformation in how buildings are designed, constructed, and ultimately, how they impact the planet. Let’s build a future we can be proud of – one that’s sustainable, resilient, and mindful of the environment.
Meanwhile, here are four things we can do about our carbon footprints.
If you would like to discuss something related to a commercial property sale or valuation please contact me, Dominic Tomlinson, direct via email at dominic.tomlinson@bracketts.co.uk or mobile: 07990 745282.
