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Enviromental Issues —Leading the Industry in Environmental Stewardship
AGC provides its members with essential environmental resources
The Contractors Role
The Associated General Contractors of America provides contractors with the information and resources needed to achieve a green approach to construction practices.
Contractors play a vital role in sustaining economic growth and are often the most visible players in real estate development. Yet, the contractor’s role in the implementation of a project is often limited to the specifications already outlined in the contract.
However, contractors can take steps to build in a way that minimizes unnecessary pollution. There are great benefits to be gained by recycling demolition and construction debris, protecting indoor air quality during construction and selecting construction materials and products that are environmentally friendly.
Contractors also can green a project without relying on green design. Decisions to voluntarily retrofit off-road diesel construction equipment, implement a no-idling policy and develop a rigorous environmental program or an environmental management system are just a few ways for contractors to decrease the impact made on the environment during a project.
Many owners who ask contractors to build green also seek certification of their buildings through the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®), Green Globes™ or ENERGY STAR® programs.
In addition to specific construction practices, contractors also play an important role in the certification process by coordinating with subcontractors to obtain the paperwork associated with these programs.
Environmental Stewardship
AGC developed its Environmental Agenda to help members become environmental leaders by incorporating stewardship into their day-to-day operations.
AGC’s broad range of services seeks to engage construction contractors in environmental stewardship at all levels.
In its agenda, the association commits itself to encouraging environmental stewardship, recognizing environmentally responsible construction practices, strengthening government support for environmental excellence incentives and identifying opportunities to reduce the impact that construction has on the environment.
AGC continues to develop and distribute practical compliance tools and resources for members that will help them not only meet but also surpass federal and local environmental regulations.
The association holds environmental seminars, forums and networking events and publishes an electronic newsletter that informs members of environmental developments and highlights positive contributions to environmental improvement.
AGC also actively advocates for balanced environmental regulations. AGC’s partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency allows an open dialogue in the process of aligning environmental programs with business and economic concerns.
AGC is a proponent of the voluntary retrofit of off-road diesel construction equipment, supports new federal funding for green building projects and encourages government-sponsored activities designed to streamline or provide technical assistance to contractors who apply for funds and other incentives.
AGC is a leader in providing the industry with environmental resources that help contractors pursue environmental and financial sustainability.
For more information on AGC’s Environmental Services, go to www.agc.org/environment.
SEVEN WAYS TO A GREENER WORKSITE
> Exceed regulatory requirements.
> Develop an environmental program or management system.
> Reduce air emissions from existing equipment.
> Recycle and reuse construction and demolition debris.
> Protect indoor air quality during construction.
> Protect existing vegetation, donate cleared trees or mulch for use on site.
> Make environmentally friendly purchasing decisions.
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