Green House Gases and Water Pollution Due to Construction Projects - Coursework Example

GRЕЕN HОUSЕ GАSЕS АND WАTЕR РОLLUTIОN DUЕ TО СОNSTRUСTIОN РRОJЕСTS Name: Tutor: Course: Date: Abstract Due to the changes of the environment, there have been climate change and other deteriorations on the natural standards and expectations. Greenhouse gases emission in particular is causing hazardous deterioration of the environment particularly the air and water. Greenhouse gases have been known to contribute significantly to respiratory problems, acid rain, poor soils, destruction of marine lives, and overall effect on the climate as a whole. Additionally due to the intensity of human-activity integrated with technology pollution rapidly increases and diversifies. Construction today may be the improving due to advancement in technology, machinery and building materials, however further measures are necessary to ensure there is consistent progress and protection of the environment as a whole. Table of Contents Abstract 2 I.Introduction 4 II.Discussion 5 a)Air Pollution 5 b)Water Pollution 8 c)Soil and Noise Pollution 9 III.Construction Pollution Prevention and Cost Recovery 10 IV.Conclusion 12 V.References 14 I. Introduction Pollution, especially air and water pollutions are a major concern today. Greenhouse gases emission in particular is causing hazardous deterioration of the environment particularly the air and water (Mishra 2017, p 37). Greenhouse gases have been known to contribute significantly to respiratory problems, acid rain, poor soils, destruction of marine lives, and overall effect on the climate as a whole(Liam 2016, p 507). Indeed, due to the advancement of technology, there have been measures taken to ensure that these kinds of pollution are taken care of. However, it is not a dying concern as more people are coming up with ideas and the need to bring them to life and in the process creating major construction activities (Liam 2016, p 612). This research paper will look at the effect these constructions and other activities have with regard to pollution and the overall protection of the environment. Construction sites both in the rural and urban areas are some of the greatest sources of pollution (Mishra 2017,p 37). The pollution involves air, soil, and noise and water pollution. Construction sites are also often responsible for other sources of pollution due to the ability to reveal existing subsurface substances that eventually lead to pollution(John & Michael 2016, p.102). Once construction is completed, there are numerous measures needed to ensure that there is remedy for home owners near the sites and the site owners themselves(Stern2014,p 34). Construction pollution is a common term used to describe this type of pollution. The main types of constructions that often encourage construction pollution are building construction pollution and road construction pollution(Liam 2016, p 540). Building construction pollution represents the contamination at the sites where buildings are constructed which includes the demolition phase among others(John & Michael 2016, p.103). Road construction pollution on the other had represents generation of construction contamination in the process of building of roads. Generally, construction pollution’s largest effect is experienced due to release of green gases and numerous substances to water outlets(Hui2015, p 124). This research will look at the various ways that construction works create pollution and the solutions to the same. II. Discussion a) Air Pollution Air pollution is by far the most immediate form of pollution in most construction sites. Despite the obvious noise pollution due to the ongoing activity, there is the release of airborne contaminators that affect the quality of air (Mishra 2017, p 40). These airborne contaminators are often carried around by wind releasing various volatile substances that affecting almost every area around the construction site (Stern2014, p 36). Due to the nature of air and it ability to travel fast and through long distances, contaminants spread much easily (John & Michael 2016, p.103). Some of the greatest contaminants that are spread by wind include most particulate matters with a diameter less than 10 microns generating dust that is already polluted. In addition there are also volatile organic compounds, asbestos and gases (Hui2015, p 124). Some of these gases are responsible for the greenhouse emissions that are toxic and in most cases lead to illness affecting the respiratory system(Liam 2016, p 543). These gases include carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Road and building constructions have very critical and unavoidable effect on the environment. This is because construction comprises of a number of actions that contribute to emissions and overuse of resources(John & Michael 2016, p.104). The process of manufacturing of materials, transporting of the necessary materials to the sites, installation and construction of buildings are all of a demanding nature(Mishra 2017,p 39).. As such, there is a likelihood that there will be subsequent emission of large quantities of greenhouse gases. It is the collective emission and outcomes of these processes that lead to greenhouse gasses release to the environment. Looking at some of these processes such as the above mentioned manufacture and transportation of materials, energy consumption of the equipment used in the processes; energy consumption in the actual process of manufacture and the disposal of most of the construction waste(Hui2015, p 125). Most countries that are carrying out numerous constructions such has Hong Kong, have carried out research and presented results on the overall greenhouse gases effects(John & Michael 2016, p.103). For instance, in Hong Kong, the total greenhouse gases show that 82-87% are embodied in the building materials. These materials are often restructured to fit the purpose of construction and in the process there are greenhouses gases emissions and other releases. Further, 6-8% of the greenhouse gases emissions are from the consistent to and from transportation of the building materials and waste produces to their respective dumpsites(Hui2015, p 126). This is one of the greatest sources of pollution inclusive of noise and air pollution. In addition to this, pollution occurs in the process of energy consumption by the act of transportation and actual act of construction. The use of fossil fuel and other gases-emitting sources has had an adverse effect on the environment(John & Michael 2016, p.105). A good example of energy consumption is in the process of recycling of building materials especially the 94-95% emissions associated with the concrete and reinforced steel account. Recycling of building materials may be advantageous to the environment in the long run as it would mean reduced emissions of greenhouse gases embodied in the original materials(Mishra 2017, p 39). However the process and amount of energy used to process the same is equally drastic. b) Water Pollution Water run offs from construction sites surfaces is another major cause of pollution in relation to the environment(Liam 2016, p 509). In most construction sites, there are various substances that contain construction contamination(Hui2015, p 125). These contaminants while deposited in water lead to water pollution. They include paints, glues, diesel, toxic chemicals and other materials such as cement. Water pollution is one of the greatest and fast growing pollution today(Stern2014, p 36). It is caused by the water run offs that contain harmful substances, by growth of toxic plants due to long periods of exposure of substances to certain chemicals and at times, from groundwater that are accessed through the digging of surfaces for purposes of constructions(Liam 2016, p 530). At some point of construction, run waters may infiltrate the subsurface and reach the groundwater that may be clean and healthy if preserved. However, if there are sources of pollution in the neighbourhood, the same cannot be said because the pollutants eventually flow to the nearest water outlet and spreads the pollution(Mishra 2017, p 40). In the event that construction sites are near homes and other institutions, animals, pets and the family may drink the contaminated water(John & Michael 2016, p.105). Further, this kind of pollutions may affect the soil pollution if there is direct reliance of the water affecting the quality at the same time(Mishra 2017, p 40). Release of the greenhouse gases has commonly affected water as well. This is because of the ability of toxic air and rain may mix and lead to pollution of the final destination of rain water(Stern2014, p 34). Further, water may affect the air. For instance the ability of vapour intrusion of volatile contaminants from water may mix with clean air affecting its quality. Overall, water pollution from construction sites is underestimated. In most cases today, research has shown that water pollution just like air pollution has potential to generate severe environmental problems. c) Soil and Noise Pollution These types of pollution are important because they are interrelated to Noise pollution and Soil pollution(Mishra 2017, p 40). Soil around and near construction sites may become contaminated because of deposition of construction contaminants(Liam 2016, p 540). . In addition, water run offs which are in most cases contaminated and probably acidic affect the soil due to the contaminants that accumulate in soil over periods of time(Hui2015,p 124). With regard to noise pollution, despite the modern advancements, noise pollution remains a persistent type of air pollution, Often, this noise has led to stress, sleep disturbance, high blood pressure and eventual hearing loss. III. Construction Pollution Prevention and Cost Recovery Good construction sites are almost impossible to achieve but doable(Hui2015,p 122). This is by coming up with measures that control and prevent pollution(Mishra 2017, p 40). One of the most important steps is to have the ability to prepare environmental risk assessment mechanisms that oversee all construction activities(John & Michael 2016, p.103). This is by evaluating what is likely to cause pollution, the extent and how it can be avoided. Today, many countries have taken measures towards resolving the issues of pollution. Countries that go through constant constructions such as Dubai have minimal pollution and this is a clear sign of advancement and awareness (Liam 2016, p 555). Dubai in particular relies on machinery that is well equipped to prevent unwanted emissions and at the same time ensure effectiveness (Liam 2016, p 540). In addition, being one of the greatest sources of fuel, it is certain that the contractors behind its mining among others is aware of the importance of mechanisms that can be adopted well across the world (Liam 2016, p 600). For these reasons therefore, there are a number of measures that can be taken to mitigate these risks and that many other countries can learn from countries like Hong Kong, Japan and Dubai.These measures are as follows; a. Leaving enough vegetable cover in the course of construction or planting a Fresh on the site to prevent erosions, run off that may occur due to the flow of water or the blowing of wind. b. Controlling dust at the construction sites. This is by continued spray of water to dampen the site among others(Mishra 2017, p 39).In addition, there may be efforts to screen the construction site areas to stop dust spreading, placing fine mesh to reduce dust sources. c. To cover trucks loaded with construction materials like cement, sand and others to sampan down probable effects of wind or rain hence preventing the washing into waterways or drainage areas. d. To use non-toxic paints, solvents and other non-hazardous materials to prevent spills and other site contaminations. e. To use low sulphur diesel oil in construction vehicles and other equipment that incorporate advanced specifications of filters and converters. f. To avoid burning non-biodegradable materials on site. These are the products that often lead to release of gases that are pollutants and in many occurrences, may be deposited in water sources if carried away by run offs and other things. g. To collect all other waste waters that are generated from the processes at the construction site and have measures that can clean the water and dispose of the unwanted substance at an appropriate location. h. To ensure there is reduction of noise pollution through careful handling of materials. This is possible by use of modern tools and machinery that are quieter and have sound shields suitable for construction. The discussion above shows that indeed, pollution creates damages that may be corrected. However, there are other measures that can be taken with regard to personal and property damages(Mishra 2017, p 39). From the public perspective, the best prevention to pollution could be distance from the construction site. This will ensure distance from noise and air pollution. In addition, having a rich vegetation cover around the site and the homes nearby creates a natural filter for some of the numerous pollutions generated. Clearly, regularly spreading water reduces the amount of dust and exposure to what may be inhaled affecting people directly through development of respiratory problems. With regard to property damage, it is important for constructors to identify probable pollution based on the results of their actions(Liam 2016, p 540). This is possible through a quality survey and environmental assessment. If this is not possible, measures can be taken towards remedial processes that may be possible through forensic research and investigations on the prior use of the land or any pollutants that may have been related to the same. IV. Conclusion Greenhouse gases today have become the most harmful to the environment. The most critical effect is the thinning of the ozone layer resulting in global warming. Due to the changes of the environment, there have been climate change and other deteriorations on the natural standards and expectations (John & Michael 2016, p.103). The discussions above clearly show that construction activities are among the greatest contributors to pollution. This is particular relation to water and air pollution(Hui2015, p 121). The processes that involve manufacture, processing and other energy consuming processes show that indeed pollution as a result of constructions are very high. It is possible to take measures that reduce these pollution related hazards. Some of them are in relation to the chosen machinery, the chosen sources of energy, the area of construction, measures taken to prevent run offs by either air or water among other significant actions. Overall, construction today may be the improving due to advancement in technology, machinery and building materials, however further measures are necessary to ensure there is consistent progress and protection of the environment as a whole. V. References Hui, Y., 2015, Greenhouse gas emissions in building construction: A case study of One Peking in Hong Kong,pp 121-126 John,M,& Michael, N.A., 2016. Pollution in Construction Sites, pp101-107 Liam, T. U., 2016, Construction in Dubai. The environment and all other issues. pp 506-900 Mishra O.T, 2017, Fundamentals of air and water pollution. A case study of Japan and Hong Kong, pp 37-40. Stern, A. C., 2014, Air Pollution. Elsevier Science, pp 34-45. Read More

The main types of constructions that often encourage construction pollution are building construction pollution and road construction pollution(Liam 2016, p 540). Building construction pollution represents the contamination at the sites where buildings are constructed which includes the demolition phase among others(John & Michael 2016, p.103). Road construction pollution on the other had represents generation of construction contamination in the process of building of roads. Generally, construction pollution’s largest effect is experienced due to release of green gases and numerous substances to water outlets(Hui2015, p 124).

This research will look at the various ways that construction works create pollution and the solutions to the same. II. Discussion a) Air Pollution Air pollution is by far the most immediate form of pollution in most construction sites. Despite the obvious noise pollution due to the ongoing activity, there is the release of airborne contaminators that affect the quality of air (Mishra 2017, p 40). These airborne contaminators are often carried around by wind releasing various volatile substances that affecting almost every area around the construction site (Stern2014, p 36).

Due to the nature of air and it ability to travel fast and through long distances, contaminants spread much easily (John & Michael 2016, p.103). Some of the greatest contaminants that are spread by wind include most particulate matters with a diameter less than 10 microns generating dust that is already polluted. In addition there are also volatile organic compounds, asbestos and gases (Hui2015, p 124). Some of these gases are responsible for the greenhouse emissions that are toxic and in most cases lead to illness affecting the respiratory system(Liam 2016, p 543).

These gases include carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Road and building constructions have very critical and unavoidable effect on the environment. This is because construction comprises of a number of actions that contribute to emissions and overuse of resources(John & Michael 2016, p.104). The process of manufacturing of materials, transporting of the necessary materials to the sites, installation and construction of buildings are all of a demanding nature(Mishra 2017,p 39).. As such, there is a likelihood that there will be subsequent emission of large quantities of greenhouse gases.

It is the collective emission and outcomes of these processes that lead to greenhouse gasses release to the environment. Looking at some of these processes such as the above mentioned manufacture and transportation of materials, energy consumption of the equipment used in the processes; energy consumption in the actual process of manufacture and the disposal of most of the construction waste(Hui2015, p 125). Most countries that are carrying out numerous constructions such has Hong Kong, have carried out research and presented results on the overall greenhouse gases effects(John & Michael 2016, p.103). For instance, in Hong Kong, the total greenhouse gases show that 82-87% are embodied in the building materials.

These materials are often restructured to fit the purpose of construction and in the process there are greenhouses gases emissions and other releases. Further, 6-8% of the greenhouse gases emissions are from the consistent to and from transportation of the building materials and waste produces to their respective dumpsites(Hui2015, p 126). This is one of the greatest sources of pollution inclusive of noise and air pollution. In addition to this, pollution occurs in the process of energy consumption by the act of transportation and actual act of construction.

The use of fossil fuel and other gases-emitting sources has had an adverse effect on the environment(John & Michael 2016, p.105). A good example of energy consumption is in the process of recycling of building materials especially the 94-95% emissions associated with the concrete and reinforced steel account.

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