Abstract:
In the last five years we have seen the emergence of sustainability issues within the engineering design and the construction industry in New Zealand. These issues have been reflected in industry relevant legislation and guidance at a central and local government level, and in the establishment of organisations such as the New Zealand Green Building Council, and in Australia the Green Infrastructure Council. Many existing industry organisations have run conferences related to sustainability and climate change and are developing industry guidance and training to increase capacity within their target groups. In parallel green products and design approaches are coming onto the market. Questions of sustainability are no longer confined to the realms of academia, advocacy groups and policy think tanks. These are moving into the marketplace. The case studies in this paper share examples of how learning is taking place and in particular how tools and frameworks along with appropriate support are starting to raise the level of engagement around more sustainable solutions by the construction industry. The two case study examples considered are the use of carbon foot-printing as a tool for emissions reduction in the construction process – both for designers and for contractors - and the use of the REBRI guidelines and related waste minimization initiatives to reduce construction waste. The paper will share the methodologies and outcomes as well as the processes used to engage the workforce at a practical level. The case studies demonstrate that when the transition is made from concepts and principles to tangible outcomes and practical action, engagement occurs and thinking shifts.