Sustainable Engineering Practices In Construction

GOOD AFTERNOON #CONCRETENATION!!!!! I just wrapped up a deep dive on how to calculate GWP for concrete mix designs using real-world materials and performance-based thinking. This isn't about theory — it's about practical application. As we push toward more sustainable construction, understanding the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of our concrete mixtures isn’t just a “nice to have” — it’s mission-critical. 📌 What's inside: a. Step-by-step method to calculate GWP in kg CO₂e per cubic yard, b. Real mix comparison: traditional 4500 psi vs. low-carbon alternative, c. Paste volume vs. granular skeleton, d. ACI CODE-323 and why it changes the way we should approach mix design. 👷 Who should read this: 1. Concrete producers working on low-carbon mix submittals, 2. Structural and civil engineers designing for ACI 318 and ACI 323 compliance, 3. Contractors verifying early-age performance and jobsite feasibility, 4. Inspectors and architects evaluating sustainable specs and mix performance. 🚧 Why it matters: - GWP thresholds are coming to your jobsite — whether you're ready or not, - Cement reduction is key, but not enough without smart mix balancing, - Your ability to measure and report environmental performance is now a design and business differentiator. Give it a read and let me know your thoughts and questions. #intelligentconcrete #beton #jonbelkowitz #Concrete #LowCarbonConcrete #ACI323 #MixDesign #ConcreteTechnology #SustainableConstruction #ReadyMix #CivilEngineering #JobsitePerformance #GWP #ConcreteProducers #Specifiers #ConstructionInnovation

What if every building project was designed to last 100 years while minimizing waste and maximizing sustainability? The construction industry plays a pivotal role in shaping our environment. From schools and hospitals to offices and homes, these structures leave a lasting impact not just on the landscape but on our planet’s resources. Recently, Claire Attkisson, MBA from Colorado Jaynes Construction shared valuable insights into how the company integrates sustainability into its operations. Here are some key takeaways that might inspire us all to rethink how we build and design: 1️⃣ Waste Management Matters: Jaynes Construction has embraced tools like Waste Management's "Dirt Program" and local collaborations with Phoenix Recycling to measure and manage construction waste. This data-driven approach underscores the principle: what gets measured, gets done. 2️⃣ Prevention Starts in Design: Leveraging technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM), they reduce waste by optimizing materials and resolving design clashes before construction even begins. 3️⃣ Energy Efficiency Equals Long-term Savings: Energy modeling is becoming a critical component in new projects, demonstrating how upfront investments in renewable systems can pay dividends over the building's lifecycle. 4️⃣ The Power of Collaboration: Jaynes uses integrated design approaches, bringing architects, contractors, and stakeholders to the table early. This ensures durability, functionality, and alignment with sustainability goals. 🌱 As Claire aptly mentioned, sustainability isn’t a “nice-to-have” but a necessity. By focusing on lifecycle cost analysis and innovative financing models like PACE, even budget constraints can align with green goals. Let’s reimagine a future where every building reflects a commitment to sustainability. How can we, as professionals in different industries, apply similar principles to reduce waste and build with purpose? I’d love to hear your thoughts. What sustainability practices have you encountered or implemented that made a real difference? #Sustainability #GreenBuilding #WasteManagement

🏗️ What if development worked with nature instead of against it? Traditional site design often prioritizes maximizing buildable area—but at what cost? Increased runoff, flooding risks, and higher maintenance expenses are just a few of the challenges that arise. Low-Impact Development (LID) flips the script. By using nature-based solutions, LID: 🌿 Reduces runoff with permeable surfaces and green infrastructure 💧 Improves water quality by filtering pollutants before they enter waterways 🏘️ Enhances community spaces with green buffers, rain gardens, and natural drainage At Olsson, we’ve seen firsthand how LID strategies can create more resilient, cost-effective, and aesthetically pleasing developments. Instead of treating stormwater as a problem, we turn it into an asset that enhances the site. Some of our favorite LID techniques include: ✔️ Bioswales that slow, filter, and direct stormwater naturally ✔️ Permeable pavers that allow rain to seep into the ground instead of overwhelming storm drains ✔️ Rain gardens that provide both function and beauty, reducing runoff while adding greenery The result? Smarter, more sustainable development that benefits both people and the environment. 💡 What LID strategies have you seen successfully implemented in your projects? Let’s discuss! ⬇️ #SustainableDevelopment #GreenInfrastructure #SmartGrowth #CivilEngineering #WeAreOlsson