Sustainable Building Practices in Nigerian Construction
August 15, 2024
The recorded growth in the Nigerian real estate factor is one that is very beneficial to the country’s economy but detrimental to the environment. The growth of the real estate company has equated to an increase in output for the Nigerian construction industry. The activities of the construction industry have contributed greatly to greenhouse emissions, resource depletion, and waste generation. However, there are sustainable building practices that would reduce the impact of these activities and lead to a more environmentally friendly environment. Here are some sustainable building practices that can be adopted:
We can begin with the use of green building materials. Certainly not by the colour green; green building materials are materials that are locally sourced from nature and are very certain to reduce environmental impact. Examples of green building materials include bamboo, reclaimed wood from old buildings and waste, low-carbon cement, recycled glass, low-VOC paint, etc. There may also be a need to tilt towards energy-efficient design in building orientation, insulation, and natural ventilation to reduce energy consumption.
Building construction should also be related to water conservation. This could be done by installing means for rainwater harvesting and greywater reuse. This way, there can be minimal water waste. There are also other building technologies, such as the use of solar panels. All in the bid to manage and reduce waste and recycle what needs to be.
Some of these sustainable building practices are very beneficial in the following ways: There is a reduction in operating and maintenance costs as energy and water efficiency will lead to lower utility bills. It would also interest you to know that incorporating sustainable features into buildings increases the value of the property and attracts eco-conscious buyers who know its worth and patronize you accordingly. Whoever would be occupying the building is quite sure of better indoor air quality and occupant wellbeing.
As much as these steps may require high upfront payments, especially considering some of the smart home technologies and also considering that the building strategy has limited awareness, you can be sure that, as a builder, developer, and owner, you will easily meet government regulations and standards, and you will also have the government’s support as the government will always encourage policies and incentives that are eco-friendly and also economy-boosting.
Adopting these sustainable building practices helps create an environmentally friendly Nigeria and future-proof buildings that both people and the planet can benefit from. This is simply a call to the eco-friendly and environment-conscious side of your real estate venture.