The construction industry accounts for a sizeable proportion of the Irish economy (approximately €28 billion or 24% of GNP) and provides direct employment to 235,000 people. The relationship between construction activities, and the built environment on the one hand, and sustainable development on the other, is both significant and complex. Construction uses more raw materials than any other sector and the creation and operation of the built environment accounts for a significant proportion of the consumption of natural resources.
The built environment in Ireland accounts for about 40% of operational energy consumption and the same proportion of carbon dioxide emissions. All involved in the construction sector have a role to play in influencing the sector's impact on climate change. In the recent past, poor planning and urban design have resulted in large amounts of urban sprawl development on the outskirts of our major cities. These developments were often not adequately serviced in terms of infrastructure and public transport, which has often led to long commuting distances, usually by private car, which has led to a continued growth in greenhouse gas emissions associated with transport.
In addition to this, the developments do not always take account of long term sustainability of buildings, proper energy management, or the overall building design and use. All of these issues mean that the sector has influenced, and continues to influence, both directly and indirectly, the level of greenhouse gas emissions in Ireland.
The construction sector can, therefore, play its part in reducing its impact on climate change, by giving consideration to the way developments are planned, designed and constructed – focussing on the layout, materials selection, construction techniques, and infrastructure provision. It will be necessary for all involved throughout this sector (planners, architects, surveyors, developers, engineers, and local authority personnel) to work together in an integrated manner to combat climate change.
How does the construction sector impact on climate change
Impact of climate change on the construction sector