Continuing Education

Reaching Beyond Formula: How Every Contractor Should Contribute to Sustainability

By: JACKIE MUSTAKAS, LEED AP BD+C

A variety of sustainable design and construction solutions have advanced the success of the green building movement. Of these contributions, innovative design systems and strategies seem to play a primary role in the progression. Rarely does a construction team go beyond LEED credits and the associated go-to green formulas to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability into the construction phase. As a solution, construction manager Robins & Morton has developed an internal program to examine opportunities to green every jobsite, beyond those recommended by LEED rating systems.
This article reviews specific actions and initiatives that the contractor, construction manager, or anyone overseeing the construction process can mirror to generate a list of feasible and cost-appropriate activities to reduce environmental impact and carbon footprint during the construction process. These recommendations can also be used by building owners to guide sustainable decision making and efforts during construction on future projects. With the right people, process, and commitment, every contractor can implement a sustainable jobsite program; all working collectively to minimize the environmental impact of construction and demolition.

Learning objectives

  • Communicate the opportunities a construction manager has to enhance the sustainability during construction
  • Generate a list of feasible and cost-appropriate activities to reduce environmental impact and carbon footprint during the construction process
  • Appropriately structure a sustainability program to facilitate successful implementation on the project site
  • Enhance the project’s success by demonstrating a deep commitment to sustainability on the project site

This article has been approved for one GBCI CE hour for LEED Credential Maintenance.
GBCI Course Number: 0920001559

To earn this CE hour, read the article (link within course materials below) and complete the 10 question quiz (link also provided below). After scoring 80% or greater, you will receive a certificate of completion by email and will be able to report this course for Credential Maintenance of your LEED Accredited Professional or LEED Green Associate credential.

Course materials:
Reaching Beyond Formula: How Every Contractor Should Contribute to Sustainability

Take the quiz