Environmental Awareness in Construction

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 1
Unit No:
L/618/3318
Credits:
3
Guided learning hours:
30 hours

For the full unit details, please download the latest version of the qualification specification. This is available for download on the relevant qualifications page.

Unit Learning Outcomes

To view the assessment criteria and any additional content, please expand the relevant learning outcome below.

1 — Know about environmental issues affecting the construction industry. 

Environmental issues

  • use of oil based products
  • carbon emissions
  • waster to landfill
  • pollution

Environmental legislation

  • Environmental Protection Act
  • Water Act
  • Air Act
  • Wildlife Protection Act

Environmental awareness

  • the future of the planet
  • extending finite resources
  • reducing waste
  • reducing heat loss and air pollution carbon emissions

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Outline different environmental issues that affect the construction industry.

  • 1.2

    Give examples of environmental regulations and recommendations relevant to the construction industry. 

  • 1.3

    Outline why environmental awareness is important in the construction industry. 

2 — Know renewable technologies and energy conservation methods in buildings. 

Renewable Technologies

  • timber framed construction
  • structural insulated panels
  • prefabricated buildings
  • solar panels
  • high levels of insulation

Energy Conservation

  • increased levels of insulation
  • heat recovery systems
  • orientation of the building
  • wider insulation filled cavities
  • solar panels
  • small wind turbines
  • air tightness of construction

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    Describe how renewable technologies are used in the construction of buildings. 

  • 2.2

    Describe methods used to conserve energy in buildings. 

3 — Know the importance of good waste management. 

Renewable Technologies

  • timber framed construction
  • structural insulated panels
  • prefabricated buildings
  • solar panels
  • high level of insulation

Waste reduction

  • using standard modular components
  • manufacturing larger components in a factory for site assembly
  • prefabrication
  • recycling skips for metal, timber, hardcore

Recycling

  • crushing demolition waste for fill materials
  • glass recycled into new material
  • steel - uses scrap metal as part of the manufacture process
  • using brownfield sites
  • timber recycled in mdf boards

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Explain the importance of re-using and recycling materials in the construction industry. 

  • 3.2

    Describe how waste can be reduced in construction. 

  • 3.3

    Describe how recyclable materials are used in the construction industry.