Unlocking the Potential of Circularity in Construction
Stakeholder Perceptions and Barriers
Three different stakeholder groups - material suppliers, design and construction teams, and real estate developers - were surveyed. Despite growing awareness of reuse practice, circular practices have not been implemented at scale. Perceived barriers differ based on industry role. Design and construction teams are concerned about lack of client interest and standardized structural assessment methods. Material suppliers face logistics complexity and supply uncertainty. Real estate developers are mainly worried about higher costs and structural assessment. However, respondents expressed willingness to absorb higher costs, with developers ready to pay an average of 9.6 percent more for a 52.9 percent reduction in embodied carbon. All stakeholders favor incentives like tax exemptions.For example, a real estate developer might initially be hesitant due to higher costs, but when presented with the potential long-term savings and environmental benefits, they may become more receptive. Material suppliers, on the other hand, need to address logistics and supply issues to make circular practices more feasible.
Next Steps to Encourage Circularity
The findings emphasize the need for more communication between design teams and developers and for exploring solutions to practical challenges. Berglund-Brown notes that circularity offers opportunities for value creation and profit. "If people are motivated by cost, let's provide a cost incentive or establish strategies," she says.For instance, municipalities could introduce ordinances requiring buildings to be deconstructed, allowing components to be reused. This would shift the supply chain towards reprocessing building materials and reduce waste. Policy also plays a crucial role in motivating change. Policies like Local Law 97 in New York City and the Building Emissions Reduction and Disclosure Ordinance in Boston have led to significant strides in low operational carbon building design.
Innovations Challenging the Status Quo
MIT researchers are not afraid to disrupt the status quo. One such innovation is Pixelframe, a smart kit of parts for modular concrete reuse. Each interlocking precast concrete module, called a Pixel, has a material passport for tracking through its life cycles. This system allows building elements to be disassembled and rebuilt several times, maintaining material efficiency and versatility.For example, in a housing project, Pixelframe can be used to build different sections that can be easily disassembled and reused in other projects. This not only reduces waste but also offers flexibility in design and construction. Mueller's work shows that circularity is technically and logistically feasible at the scale of the built environment.
Pixelframe has received significant support, including a grant from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center for commercialization. Additionally, the Biden administration's climate legislation has provided further support for circular innovation.With these initiatives, there is a growing momentum towards a circular economy in the construction sector. As Berglund-Brown encourages, "To any practitioners reading this who are interested in getting involved - please reach out."
Empowering Construction with Harassment-Free Guidelines
What OFCCP Is and Does
In 2024, OFCCP stepped forward with a detailed guide. It details the agency's general responsibilities and the laws and regulations it enforces, specifically in the construction industry. This provides a clear framework for contractors to operate within. 1: OFCCP's role is crucial in ensuring fairness and equality in the construction sector. By providing this guide, they are taking a proactive approach to address the issue of harassment. It serves as a valuable resource for contractors, helping them understand their obligations and how to create a safe working environment. 2: The guide not only outlines the agency's functions but also offers insights into the specific legal requirements that contractors must adhere to. This helps in avoiding potential legal issues and promotes a culture of compliance within the construction industry.How Harassment Is Defined and Identified
The guide clearly defines what constitutes harassment and how it can be identified. It discusses various sources of harassment, including from supervisors, co-workers, and third parties. 1: Harassment is defined in a comprehensive manner, leaving no room for ambiguity. By understanding these definitions, contractors can better recognize and address instances of harassment in their workplaces. 2: Examples of harassment are provided to give contractors a practical understanding. This helps them in training their employees and implementing effective prevention measures.Contractor Obligations to Combat Harassment
OFCCP emphasizes the importance of contractor obligations in combating sexual and gender-based harassment. 1: Contractors have a responsibility to take proactive measures to prevent harassment. This includes implementing policies and procedures, providing training to employees, and addressing any issues promptly. 2: By fulfilling these obligations, contractors can create a work environment where employees feel safe and respected, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction.Worker Rights to Harassment-Free Workplaces
Workers have the right to work in a harassment-free environment, and this guide highlights these rights. 1: Ensuring worker rights is a fundamental aspect of the guide. It empowers workers to speak up against harassment and seek redress if necessary. 2: By promoting these rights, OFCCP is working towards a more inclusive and respectful construction industry.Best Practices for Maintaining Harassment-Free Workplaces
The guide offers best practices that contractors can implement to maintain harassment-free workplaces. 1: These practices include establishing clear communication channels, promoting a culture of respect, and conducting regular audits to ensure compliance. 2: By following these best practices, contractors can set an example and inspire other construction companies to do the same.OFCCP reminds contractors that the harasser can come from various sources. The guide also provides a nonexhaustive list of examples and a hyperlink to the EEOC's enforcement guidance for more detailed information.Links to agency resources are provided throughout the guide, allowing contractors to access relevant information easily.Compared to the EEOC's guidance, OFCCP's summary format allows for quick review of significant points while providing access to more details through hyperlinks. Federal construction contractors and subcontractors are encouraged to familiarize themselves with all the guides published by OFCCP and the EEOC.Ogletree Deakins' OFCCP Compliance, Government Contracting, and Reporting Practice Group will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on their blogs.Follow and Subscribe:LinkedIn | Instagram | Webinars | PodcastsNavigating the Memphis Bridge Closure: A Holiday Challenge
Impact on Travelers
The closure of the I-55 Bridge will have a direct impact on travelers between Memphis and Arkansas. Those planning to make the journey during this period will need to find alternative routes or adjust their travel plans accordingly. This could lead to longer travel times and added stress, especially during the busy holiday season. It is important for travelers to stay informed about the closure and plan ahead to minimize any disruptions to their plans.
TDOT is working to provide information and guidance to travelers through various channels, including their website and social media platforms. Travelers are encouraged to check for updates and follow the instructions provided to ensure a safe and smooth journey. Additionally, local authorities are also working to manage traffic and provide assistance during the closure.
Construction Progress and Benefits
The closure of the bridge is part of a larger construction project aimed at improving the I-55 and Crump interchange. This project is expected to bring several benefits to the region, including improved traffic flow, enhanced safety, and better connectivity. By investing in infrastructure improvements, TDOT is working to meet the growing transportation needs of the area and ensure the long-term economic development of Memphis and the surrounding regions.
Although the closure may cause some temporary inconvenience, it is important to remember the long-term benefits that will result from these construction efforts. Once the project is completed, travelers will enjoy a more efficient and reliable transportation system that will support economic growth and improve the quality of life in the region.
Weather Considerations
Weather plays a crucial role in the construction schedule and the reopening of the bridge. If adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow, or ice occur during the closure period, construction work may be delayed or suspended. This could further extend the closure time and cause additional disruptions for travelers.
TDOT closely monitors weather conditions and makes decisions based on the safety of the construction crew and the public. In the event of inclement weather, they will take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of everyone involved and postpone the reopening of the bridge until conditions improve. Travelers are advised to check the latest weather forecasts and TDOT's website for updates on the closure status.