Environmental Awareness in Construction

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Entry Level 3
Unit No:
R/618/3319
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.

Key environmental issues

  • using greenfield sites and loss of habitats
  • wastage and landfill of materials
  • pollution
  • contaminated brownfield sites

Awareness of issues

  • use of finite resources
  • costs associated with wastage and landfill
  • producing sustainable buildings
  • life cycle costs

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Give examples of key environmental issues which affect the construction industry. 

  • 1.2

    Give reasons why it is important that the construction industry is aware of key environmental issues. 

2 — Know the importance of energy conservation. 

Conservation of energy

  • to make existing finite resources last
  • to reduce emissions to air
  • reduction in global warming effects
  • reduction in rising sea levels
  • reduction in annual flooding

Supporting Energy Conservation

  • by prefabricating components
  • by recycling renewable techniques
  • specify renewable materials
  • using less concrete in designs
  • use natural light

Renewable Energy

  • solar panels
  • wind turbines
  • hydro electricity
  • tidal/wave power
  • biomass boilers

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    State why there is a need to conserve energy. 

  • 2.2

    Give examples of ways in which the construction industry can support energy conservation.

  • 2.3

    Give examples of renewable energy. 

3 — Know methods of reducing waste whilst working in the construction industry. 

Good working practice

  • waste segregation
  • ordering correct amounts
  • using standard sizes

Recyclable materials

  • metals, copper, lead, steel, aluminium
  • timber
  • brickwork
  • concrete

Sustainable working

  • prefabricated modules
  • timber framed construction
  • using wool insulation

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Give examples of good working practice in reducing material wastage on site. 

  • 3.2

    Identify different types of material used in the construction industry that can be recycled. 

  • 3.3

    Give examples of working sustainably in construction.