The concept of Sustainable Environmental is at the forefront of the national discourse when it comes to construction. Not only is climate change a defining issue of this generation – one which cannot be ignored for much longer – but recent international developments have also led to questions about the availability of certain materials, such as bitumen. 

In recent years, we have seen a wide range of climate-related changes in both the UK and further afield. Wildfires, heatwaves, and some of the worst flooding in history have blighted the history books.  These events have only further solidified  the notion that as a society we must do all we can to reverse the harmful effects our actions have on the climate, environment, and planet.

Every day, sustainable practices are being developed to reduce our collective impact on the environment, including within the construction industry.

What is sustainable construction?

Sustainable construction is a set of goals and methods designed to ensure that continued construction can take place in the future. The aims of sustainable construction are to reduce the impact of construction works on the environment. 

To achieve this, a major shift is now underway in the construction industry. Manufacturers and other industry leaders are moving to use more renewable and recyclable materials, reduce energy consumption, minimise waste and do everything possible to protect the natural environment,

But such actions are not without their challenges. For many years, the construction industry has relied heavily on natural resources – removing new construction materials from the earth and using them. However, with the conversation turning to recycling, ‘green building’ is growing globally, especially as more renewable and recyclable materials become available. 

For example, one of NatraTex’s very own products (NatraTex Eco) is made of up to 50% recycled materials. This coloured tarmac alternative is used for decorative landscaping projects, coloured roads, school playgrounds, and a wide variety of other use cases. 

What are the benefits of sustainable construction?

Sustainable construction has one overriding benefit to the planet. As more and more businesses and construction companies commit to sustainability in building, road resurfacing, landscaping and more, it will benefit our environment and climate, both in terms of the amount of carbon being put in the atmosphere and the damage to the local environment. 

However, there are more specific benefits for those seeking to put sustainable construction into practice for their project. As recyclable and renewable materials become more prevalent, the cost benefits are passed on to businesses. What’s more, in the long run, green buildings and areas come with lower long-term operating and maintenance costs, while further savings can be found in reducing waste and developing more efficient processes.

The final benefit is that by operating sustainability, either in construction or other areas, businesses demonstrate their corporate social responsibility. Something we all must fulfil in our operations!

Sustainable Surfacing From NatraTex

At NatraTex, we are committed to sustainability in all areas of our business. We understand that in being more environmentally and ecologically friendly in our operations, we are committing to both the future of our business, the industries we serve, our communities and the environment.

In recent years, sustainability has found its way into the heart of our business. It has become a core driving factor in our vision, values and strategy and a consistent guiding force in our central operations. Not only do we strive to always add value in everything we do, but we also aim to collaborate with our customers, colleagues, and other experts in our field to source the best solutions about sustainability.

As part of our commitment, we developed NatraTex Eco, a sustainable surfacing material made from a minimum of 50% locally sourced recycled materials. With NatraTex Eco, there is no compromise on performance, sustainability, or costs. It can be used for driveways, footpaths, playgrounds, cycle lanes and much more within retail, regeneration, and residential projects.

To learn more about NatraTex Eco, or any of our products, contact us today. We would be happy to arrange a CPD session to answer any of your questions or arrange for a free sample of NatraTex Eco to be delivered directly to your door.