Headnote
ABSTRACT
Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the potential application of sustainable construction principles in the design and construction phases of a high-standard residential condominium, with the aim of proposing improvements that enhance its environmental, social, and economic feasibility, promoting the reduction of environmental impacts and strengthening sustainability in the construction sector.
Theoretical Framework: This section presents the main concepts and theories that underpin the research. Notable among them are the principles of sustainable construction defined by Kibert (2020), such as reducing resource consumption, reusing materials, using renewable sources, protecting nature, eliminating toxic components, applying life cycle cost analysis, and focusing on quality. Additionally, the guidelines of Agenda 21 applied to the construction sector (Motta, 2009) and the assessment model based on the three dimensions of sustainability- environmental, social, and economic-are also considered.
Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprises a qualitative case study focused on assessing the environmental sustainability of a residential project located in Canoas (RS), still in the pre-construction phase. The architectural, plumbing, electrical, and earthworks projects were analyzed, along with the descriptive memorial and site inspections. Data collection was carried out through the application of a checklist developed based on the principles of sustainable construction, considering aspects such as energy efficiency, use of sustainable materials, water and waste management, and environmental and economic impacts.
Results and Discussion: The results revealed that the original project design presents several shortcomings in relation to sustainability criteria. Identified gaps include the absence of erosion control strategies, reliance on nonrenewable energy sources, lack of individual water metering, and lack of specifications regarding the origin of construction materials. In the discussion, these results were contextualized based on the theoretical framework, highlighting the need for reformulating sustainable practices and guidelines in the sector. Limitations such as the project's early development stage and the lack of mandatory sustainability policies were also considered.
Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into how the results may be applied or influence practices in the field of sustainable construction. These implications may encompass the development of public policies, financial incentives for sustainable projects, training of construction professionals, and restructuring of project design and urban planning guidelines.
Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating, through a concrete case study, how environmental sustainability criteria can be applied during the pre-construction phase, even in projects that did not initially include them. The originality lies in the practical approach using a customized checklist for assessment and improvement proposals. The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by its potential to guide future developments toward sustainable practices and by showcasing the economic, environmental, and social benefits of such an approach.
Keywords: Sustainable Construction, Environmental Sustainability, Energy Efficiency, Waste Management, Architectural Design, Sustainable Development.
RESUMO
Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo é investigar o potencial de aplicação dos princípios da construção sustentável nas fases de projeto e construção de um condomínio residencial de alto padrão, com o intuito de propor melhorias que aumentem sua viabilidade ambiental, social e econômica, promovendo a redução de impactos ambientais e o fortalecimento da sustentabilidade no setor da construção civil.
Referencial Teórico: Neste tópico, são apresentados os principais conceitos e teorias que fundamentam a pesquisa. Destacam-se os princípios da construção sustentável definidos por Kibert (2020), como redução no consumo de recursos, reutilização, uso de fontes renováveis, proteção da natureza, eliminação de componentes tóxicos, aplicação do custo do ciclo de vida e foco na qualidade. Além disso, são utilizadas as diretrizes da Agenda 21 aplicadas à construção civil (Motta, 2009) e o modelo de avaliação baseado nas três dimensões da sustentabilidade: ambiental, social e econômica.
Método: A metodologia adotada para esta pesquisa compreende um estudo de caso com abordagem qualitativa, voltado à avaliação da sustentabilidade ambiental de um empreendimento residencial localizado em Canoas (RS), ainda em fase pré-construtiva. Foram analisados os projetos arquitetônico, hidrossanitário, elétrico e de terraplenagem, além do memorial descritivo e vistorias na área. A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio da aplicação de um checklist desenvolvido a partir dos princípios da construção sustentável, considerando aspectos como eficiência energética, uso de materiais sustentáveis, gestão da água e resíduos, e impacto ambiental e econômico.
Resultados e Discussão: Os resultados obtidos revelaram que o projeto, em sua forma original, apresenta diversas deficiências em relação aos critérios de sustentabilidade. Identificaram-se lacunas como a ausência de estratégias para controle de erosão, uso de fontes de energia não renováveis, falta de medição individual de água e inexistência de especificações quanto à origem dos materiais. Na discussão, esses resultados foram contextualizados com base no referencial teórico, apontando para a necessidade de reformulação de práticas e diretrizes sustentáveis no setor. Também foram consideradas limitações, como a fase inicial do empreendimento e a ausência de políticas obrigatórias de sustentabilidade.
Implicações da Pesquisa: As implicações práticas e teóricas desta pesquisa são discutidas, fornecendo insights sobre como os resultados podem ser aplicados ou influenciar práticas no campo da construção civil sustentável. Essas implicações podem abranger o desenvolvimento de políticas públicas, incentivos financeiros para projetos sustentáveis, capacitação de profissionais da construção e reestruturação de diretrizes de projeto e planejamento urbano.
Originalidade/Valor: Este estudo contribui para a literatura ao demonstrar, por meio de um estudo de caso concreto, como é possível aplicar critérios de sustentabilidade ambiental na fase pré-construtiva, mesmo em projetos que inicialmente não os contemplavam. A originalidade reside na abordagem prática com o uso de um checklist customizado para avaliação e proposição de melhorias. A relevância e o va lor desta pesquisa são evidenciados por seu potencial de orientar empreendimentos futuros quanto à adoção de práticas sustentáveis e pela demonstração dos benefícios econômicos, ambientais e sociais decorrentes dessa abordagem.
Palavras-chave: Construção Sustentável, Sustentabilidade Ambiental, Eficiência Energética, Gestão de Resíduos, Projeto Arquitetônico, Desenvolvimento Sustentável.
RESUMEN
Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio es investigar el potencial de aplicación de los principios de la construcción sostenible en las fases de proyecto y construcción de un condominio residencial de alto nivel, con el fin de proponer mejoras que aumenten su viabilidad ambiental, social y económica, promoviendo la reducción de los impactos ambientales y el fortalecimiento de la sostenibilidad en el sector de la construcción civil.
Marco Teórico: En este apartado se presentan los principales conceptos y teorías que fundamentan la investigación. Se destacan los principios de la construcción sostenible definidos por Kibert (2020), como la reducción en el consumo de recursos, la reutilización, el uso de fuentes renovables, la protección de la naturaleza, la eliminación de componentes tóxicos, la aplicación del análisis del costo del ciclo de vida y el enfoque en la calidad. Además, se utilizan las directrices de la Agenda 21 aplicadas a la construcción civil (Motta, 2009) y el modelo de evaluación basado en las tres dimensiones de la sostenibilidad: ambiental, social y económica.
Método: La metodología adoptada para esta investigación comprende un estudio de caso con enfoque cualitativo, orientado a la evaluación de la sostenibilidad ambiental de un emprendimiento residencial ubicado en Canoas (RS), aún en fase preconstructiva. Se analizaron los proyectos arquitectónico, hidrosanitario, eléctrico y de movimiento de tierras, además del memorial descriptivo y las inspecciones in situ. La recolección de datos se realizó mediante la aplicación de una lista de verificación desarrollada a partir de los principios de la construcción sostenible, considerando aspectos como la eficiencia energética, el uso de materiales sostenibles, la gestión del agua y los residuos, y los impactos ambientales y económicos.
Resultados y Discusión: Los resultados obtenidos revelaron que el proyecto, en su forma original, presenta varias deficiencias en relación con los criterios de sostenibilidad. Se identificaron vacíos como la ausencia de estrategias de control de erosión, el uso de fuentes de energía no renovables, la falta de medición individual del consumo de agua y la inexistencia de especificaciones sobre el origen de los materiales. En la discusión, estos resultados fueron contextualizados con base en el marco teórico, señalando la necesidad de reformular prácticas y directrices sostenibles en el sector. También se consideraron limitaciones, como la etapa inicial del proyecto y la ausencia de políticas obligatorias de sostenibilidad.
Implicaciones de la investigación: Se discuten las implicaciones prácticas y teóricas de esta investigación, ofreciendo ideas sobre cómo los resultados pueden ser aplicados o influir en las prácticas dentro del campo de la construcción civil sostenible. Estas implicaciones pueden abarcar el desarrollo de políticas públicas, incentivos financieros para proyectos sostenibles, la capacitación de profesionales de la construcción y la reestructuración de directrices de diseño de proyectos y planificación urbana.
Originalidad/Valor: Este estudio contribuye a la literatura al demostrar, a través de un estudio de caso concreto, cómo es posible aplicar criterios de sostenibilidad ambiental en la fase preconstructiva, incluso en proyectos que inicialmente no los contemplaban. La originalidad reside en el enfoque práctico mediante el uso de una lista de verificación personalizada para la evaluación y propuesta de mejoras. La relevancia y el valor de esta investigación se evidencian por su potencial para orientar futuros emprendimientos hacia prácticas sostenibles y por la demostración de los beneficios económicos, ambientales y sociales derivados de este enfoque.
Palabras clave: Construcción Sostenible, Sostenibilidad Ambiental, Eficiencia Energética, Gestión de Residuos, Diseño Arquitectónico, Desarrollo Sostenible.
1 INTRODUCTION
Civil construction exercises fundamental role in development economic and social, contributing significantly for the generation of jobs , movement of the economy and improvement of the quality of life of the population . However , the sector is also one of the main responsible put impacts environmental negatives , such as high energy consumption , the extraction resource intensive natural , the generation of waste solids and the greenhouse gas emissions .
In view of this scenario , it becomes essential adopt practices that combine development to sustainability , mitigating you impacts caused to the quite environment . In this context , the construction sustainable emerges as one approach strategic , integrating solutions that promote the efficiency energetics , the use rational use of resources , management adequate waste management and the enhancement of the quality of life of users . This search he has as objective evaluate , from a sustainability perspective , the design and execution phases of a project residential located in the municipality of Canoas/RS, proposing guidelines sustainable based in a structured checklist in the dimensions environmental , social and economic .
2 THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
The construction industry has emerged as one of the fundamental pillars of the global economy, contributing significantly to 13% of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Every year, approximately US$10 trillion is allocated to products and services that revolve around this vital sector. With an increase of approximately 1% in productivity over the last two decades and the participation of approximately 7% of the world's population in this activity, the construction industry not only drives the economic progress of nations, but also fosters job creation and improves the quality of life of communities (MCKINSEY GLOBAL INSTITUTE, 2017).
At the national level, this sector plays a fundamental role in driving the country's economic growth. It supports the employment of approximately 7 million workers and contributes 7% of the Gross Domestic Product (BRAZILIAN CHAMBER OF CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, 2021). Despite the considerable economic and social benefits arising from this sphere, the construction industry entails a series of environmental impacts due to its considerable energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, waste generation and intensive use of natural resources. (AGOPYAN; M. JOHN, 2011).
Residential and commercial buildings in Brazil consume around 50% of the country's total electricity consumption (BRASIL, 2015). According to the Albrepe 2020 panorama, Brazil generates 79 million tons of urban solid waste annually, of which 44.5 million tons are construction and demolition waste (CDW), that is, more than half of the waste generated comes from civil construction (ABRELPE, 2020).
In this sense, nations are progressively adopting the principle of sustainable development in their constructions, with the aim of reducing or eliminating the environmental impacts associated with this industry. As a strategy to encourage and monitor the adoption of sustainable practices in buildings, environmental certifications have emerged. Currently, more than seventy global organizations evaluate the performance of the built environment in relation to economic, social and environmental criteria, demonstrating a comprehensive approach (KIBERT, 2020).
The concept of sustainable construction is related to "the holistic process of reestablishing and maintaining harmony between the natural and built environments and creating establishments that confirm human dignity and encourage economic equality" (CIB, 2002 apud MOTTA 2009 p. 29). Sustainable construction seeks to increase the profitability of the enterprise in order to cause less environmental impact and promote improvements in the quality of life and satisfaction of the client and user (SILVA, 2003). In the study by Motta (2009), tables were created that relate the chapters of Agenda 21 with the possibilities of actions of the construction industry in the practice of sustainable development. The following tables were separated into the three aspects of sustainability: environmental, social and economic dimensions .
For each of these frameworks, general goals, specific goals and possible sustainability practices in the built environment are presented. Sustainable constructions are a way for the construction industry to mitigate environmental impacts through alternatives such as reducing a building's energy consumption, choosing ecological materials, using rainwater and many other options that can be chosen during the design of the project that affect both construction and post-occupancy. These factors also influence the economic performance of the building and consequently the quality of life of the users of the projects (CECCHETTO et al., 2015). According to Kibert (1994) apud Kibert (2020, p.10), the principles of sustainable construction are divided into seven items: reducing resource consumption ( reducing ), reusing resources (reusing), using renewable sources (reusing), and renewable (recycle), protect nature ( nature ), eliminate toxic components (toxic), apply life cycle costing ( economics ) and focus on quality ( quality ) .
The principles of sustainable construction must be applied throughout the life cycle of a building, from planning, design, execution, use and operation, maintenance, modification to deconstruction or demolition (KIBERT, 2020). In order to apply and evaluate the principles of sustainable construction, it is essential to adopt consistent policies appropriate for the sector that benefit the economic, environmental and social aspects of a building, such as minimizing environmental impacts, reducing costs and improving the quality of life of users.
3 METHODOLOGY
This study addressed the methodology for assessing environmental sustainability in the design and construction stages of a residential condominium located in an area of 13,162.51 m2 in the city of Canoas, Rio Grande do Sul. The development comprises 57 high-standard townhouses, with a total constructed area of 10,371.77 m2. Carried out between 2017 and 2018, the original projects did not incorporate criteria relevant to environmental sustainability. However, since it is still in the pre -construction phase, the approach focused on the detailed analysis of the development projects and on inspections of the area where the development will be developed. The architectural, plumbing, electrical and earthmoving projects were examined, in addition to the analysis of the descriptive memorial of the development.
The aim was to propose measures that encompass the three dimensions of sustainability - environmental, social and economic - with a view to enhancing the sustainable viability of the project. Furthermore, our assessment also considered the practices to be adopted during the construction phase, aligning them with the same purpose of strengthening sustainability. At the heart of the analyses undertaken, a careful approach was adopted to explore crucial practical aspects, including the energy efficiency of the architectural design, the feasibility of incorporating sustainable materials, responsible water use strategies, methods for effective waste management, the assessment of the impact resulting from these measures and, finally, relevant economic considerations.
To conduct this review, a detailed checklist was developed, as presented in Table 4, which comprehensively and systematically addressed the fundamental principles of sustainable construction. This checklist was used as an essential tool to assess and guide the practices adopted in the design and execution phase of the project, ensuring that each stage is aligned with the outlined sustainability objectives. Each point addressed in the checklist was selected to ensure that all relevant facets of sustainability are considered, thus allowing for an integrated approach that aims to maximize the positive benefits for the environment, the local community and the economic viability of the project.
4 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS
Based on the results obtained through the application of the evaluation criteria for sustainable construction, it can be seen that the project, in its conceptual phase, was not adequately aligned with the basic principles and practices that characterize environmental sustainability. In this context, gaps emerge that demand a more consistent and committed approach to incorporating these principles into the design and preparation of the project. The results of the application of the checklist are presented in detail in Table 4. In addition to the data collected, other relevant aspects stand out, such as:
* The initial design of the projects did not aim to minimize local soil disturbance, with high volumes of earth movements expected. This scenario highlights the need to rethink construction approaches, adopting practices that aim to preserve soils and their ecosystem functionality;
* The lack of predictions for erosion and sedimentation control throughout the construction phases is a critical point, since it can lead to environmental degradation and compromise neighboring areas. Monitoring and adoption of control techniques are essential to mitigate these undesirable effects;
* A negative impact on adjacent buildings was also observed due to the lack of measures for the adequate drainage of water and mud during heavy rains. This reinforces the importance of effective drainage strategies, targeting not only the development itself, but also the surrounding area;
* The lack of individual drinking water consumption meters limits the possibility of adequate management of water resources, preventing the identification of usage patterns and the implementation of measures to reduce consumption;
* The lack of clear specifications regarding the origin of the materials used in the project compromises traceability and the possibility of consciously choosing products with a lower environmental impact;
* Regarding energy, the emphasis on non-renewable sources is at odds with the global trend of transitioning to clean and renewable energy;
* Furthermore, the lack of specifications regarding indoor air quality in buildings is a relevant aspect, since the health and well-being of occupants are intrinsically related to the quality of the indoor environment.
Based on the analysis conducted through the application of the checklist of criteria for sustainable construction, combined with the results obtained through on-site inspections, the prospect of improving the project's design becomes clear, aiming at a more comprehensive assimilation of sustainability precepts. In line with this approach, possibilities are outlined to expand the incorporation of these paradigmatic principles in the scope of design and construction:
Implement energy solutions projects renewable energy sources , such as the use of solar panels in residences and common areas of the development ;
* Invest in feasibility of energy storage systems ( batteries ) together with the sources renewables , to maximize energy utilization generated ;
* Use energy-saving devices, such as aerators , to promote a reduction in water and energy consumption ;
* Include the installation of individual water consumption meters for each residential unit , allowing monitoring detailed consumption and identification of patterns .
* Prioritize the acquisition of construction materials produced locally, including the option for certified wood and the adoption of metal shoring . This approach not only contributes to reducing transport - related carbon emissions , but also strengthens practices sustainable and boosts the regional economy ;
* Expansion and incorporation of green areas, creating ecological corridors and habitats for local fauna;
* Implement design solutions that allow for effective rainwater infiltration, as well as the use of cisterns to store rainwater . rainwater for secondary uses ;
* construction techniques that aim to minimize impact on the soil, for example by preferring deep rather than shallow foundations . In addition , Furthermore , it is crucial to incorporate the topographic relief of the terrain into the conception architectural design of the project , allowing adjustments and the construction of houses on different levels . In this way, it is possible not only optimize the use of land in a sustainable way , but also ensure a harmonious integration with the surrounding natural environment;
* Develop an erosion and sedimentation control plan that includes measures such as containment barriers , revegetation of unprotected areas and water containment systems rainwater ;
* Specify low - cost construction materials compound emission organic volatiles ( VOCs ) to minimize indoor air pollution ;
* Perform cost -benefit simulations that consider the entire life cycle of the project , highlighting savings and benefits over time;
* Prioritize the use of high quality materials that are durable and low maintenance , reducing thus the need for replacements frequent .
Finally, it is proposed to carry out cost-benefit simulations covering the entire life cycle of the project, precisely outlining the savings and benefits to be obtained throughout its existence. In addition, it is of utmost importance to highlight the economic advantage of environmental certifications in this context. Obtaining recognized certifications, such as LEED ( Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or AQUA-HQE (developed from the French HQE - Haute Qualité certification) Environmental ), can not only increase the value of the project in the market, but also result in reduced operating costs over time, due to energy efficiency, reduced waste and lower maintenance. Additionally, it is suggested to further explore financing alternatives or incentives specifically aimed at sustainable projects, with the aim of mitigating initial costs and encouraging the adoption of environmentally responsible practices.
5 CONCLUSION
The present study evidenced the absence of practices sustainable in the project initial project analyzed , even in the face of the growing demand put constructions more aligned to the principles of sustainability . The analysis demonstrated that the adoption of simple but effective measures can transform significantly the environmental , social and economic performance of a project . The construction sustainable no should not be seen as an obstacle , but as one opportunity for innovation and appreciation . Invest in solutions sustainable - as energy sources renewables , use water rationale , choice aware of materials and planning life cycle based - adds value , reduces future costs and contributes to balance environmental . In view of this , it is recommended that the projects be reviewed in phases initials of undertakings similar , so as to incorporate good practices from the beginning sustainable . In addition of this , policies public incentives , certifications environmental issues and awareness among professionals in the sector they are fundamental to consolidate a new culture in the Brazilian civil construction , focused on responsibility socioenvironmental and development sustainable.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
You authors thank CNPq for its support by the productivity grants in development technological and extension innovative DT2 by authors Marcelo Caetano, Luciana Gomes and Carlos Moraes, and by the CAPES doctoral scholarship of Rafael Oliveira.
References
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