The construction industry is a rapidly evolving field that is vast and far-reaching in our global economy.  With the housing market in a slump, many people may be hesitant about construction as a career choice.  Construction as an industry makes up 70 percent of our energy use and as a result plays a critical role in rebuilding a sustainable economy based on renewable energy and energy efficiency.

The phrase “green building” is thrown around a lot these days, but what is “green” when it comes to a heavy carbon footprint industry like construction? “Green,” in the case of construction, refers to minimizing the embodied energy of the materials we use and increasing the overall energy performance of our buildings.

Embodied energy is a term referring to the amount of “environmental degradation” associated with a product.  This impact can occur during mining and extraction or in the shipping/transportation of the materials.  The farther  the material has been shipped, the more energy has been used.   Buying local materials is a good place to start:  it’s not only good for the planet, but  it’s also good for local economies.  Some materials require more manufacturing than others, some require the use of toxic adhesives, etc.  Using rapidly renewable materials such as bamboo flooring can be called “green”; however, if the product is being shipped from China, it may not be as environmentally friendly as manufacturers claim.  Using more insulation and advanced framing can increase the energy efficiency of a building, lessening its long-term embodied energy.   Using local natural building materials or waste materials is a really good way to build green.  Affordable housing also plays a huge role in the sustainability of the construction industry.  Someone living in a 5000 square foot home that is built with “green“ materials is better than one without, but heating and cooling that much space isn’t necessary or sustainable.  Not only is it more material, more space to heat and a bigger overall footprint but bigger homes drive up property taxes for middle income families and help create the affordable housing crisis we’re experiencing around the country.

Not only is shelter a basic need that humans will always have, but the construction industry will play a vital role in a new economic infrastructure.   Construction not only employs carpenters , contractors & subcontractors, but also manufacturers, transporters, miners, salespeople, inspectors, investors, energy analyzers, product developers and inventors, loggers, sawyers, engineers, architects, scientists,  teachers…. The list goes on and on.   The industry is not only vast, but the current changes offer great opportunities for those who can adapt and adopt the sustainable principles that will drive the market into the future.  Welcome to AB-Tech Construction Science, Asheville’s Green Building School…. the future is here.

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it is the head instructor for A-B Tech’s Carpentry Department, part of the A-B Tech Construction Science program.

Read more about Heath Moody.

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