Mitigating Environmental Impact In Construction Through Used Equipment

Did you know that the construction sector contributes an astounding 25% to 40% of carbon emissions around the world? What’s more, the industry generates a significant amount of air and water pollution as well as a lot of waste that ultimately ends in landfills. While we depend on the various development projects executed every day around the world, more can be done to lessen the environmental impact of construction. Below, we’ll briefly go over one solution in particular: opting for used construction equipment instead of new. 

One of the leading reasons why it’s advantageous to choose used is that it can be constructive in resource conservation. Manufacturing new heavy machinery and equipment requires many raw materials to be sourced and a ton of energy to be expended in the process. With refurbished equipment, these resources — many of which are limited — can be saved and allocated elsewhere. This helps conserve materials and supplies in the long run while also reducing the energy needed to collect, refine or otherwise process them.

Another noteworthy motive construction companies cite for this sustainable alternative is that it helps lower emissions. With the importance of minimizing impact, especially in terms of an organization’s carbon footprint, construction companies of all sizes are encouraged to take steps to cut down on their emissions of greenhouse gases that greatly contribute to air pollution and climate change. This includes carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides emitted by heavy equipment, such as loaders, excavators and others heavily reliant on fossil fuel. 

By selecting a used machine, or even just refurbished parts for repairs and maintenance needs, it can reduce the company’s carbon footprint and help meet shifting regulations and environmental standards. Doing so also helps demonstrate the company’s dedication to sustainable practices and, therefore, improve its image in the eyes of stakeholders and environmentally aware clientele. 

Last, but not least, there are the direct economic benefits to consider. By opting to purchase used equipment, it offers a lower upfront investment cost in comparison to new. It also has a strong resale value, as new equipment depreciates rapidly in its initial years. This can be more cost-effective and offer greater flexibility when undertaking a short-term or specialized project.

In short, extending machinery lifespans by opting for used equipment can be beneficial for an organization through the promotion of environmental responsibility, reduction of waste and expansion of cost-cutting measures. If you would like to learn more reasons why to choose used construction equipment over new, please see the accompanying resource.

Resources

https://moneyminiblog.com/business/environmental-impact-construction-equipment-alternatives/

Infographic provided by Bid Equip, a provider of online heavy equipment auctions