If we are to manage the challenges ahead, it is time to make the transition from words to actions. At Skanska, we are already engaged in green construction. We undertake this not only to reduce our impact on the environment, but because it is simply good business sense, both for our customers and for Skanska.
We consider green construction to be a color chart with a clear objective: a truly green society.
We use three colors to visualize the development from the standard construction of today to construction without any negative impact on the environment.
Beige marks the starting point – whereby we abide by laws, regulations and standards. Much of what we build today corresponds to this color. However, we want more. Consequently, we are building in greener and greener ways.
Green represents the constructions that are a significant improvement over current construction norms. Skanska already has several green reference projects that represent a major advancement towards our ultimate objective.
Dark green is our ultimate objective. At this stage, our impact on the environment is simply nonexistent or as close to zero as possible.
Ultimate objective: a truly green society
As a builder of social infrastructure, we have much to contribute to creating a greener society.
Moving ourselves from beige to dark green requires a more holistic attitude to the world around us – we should not only build a house or a bridge or a factory, but ensure that whatever we build is in harmony with its environment and does not lead to any negative effects in its surroundings, at the present time or at any time during it its life cycle.
Technology is not an obstacle
We already have much of the expertise and tools required for putting us well on our way toward achieving a truly green society. Naturally, technology will become more refined, efficient, inexpensive and easier to use. However, there is no reason to wait for improved technology.
Green construction does not have to be more expensive. The fact is that the solutions we are working with can lead to major savings, even in terms of money. A slightly larger investment provides far greater savings over time. Furthermore, the economic benefits will become even greater when costs increase for energy, water and waste handling.
There is no single solution to the problems we face – there are thousands, and the number of solutions are increasing and improving. We are in the midst of intensive developments in green thinking and green community building. With approximately 3,000 Skanska projects ongoing simultaneously in Sweden, we are continuously garnering the experience and expertise needed to advance our efforts.