The “Build, Build, Build” program of the Philippine government has spurred an onslaught of infrastructure construction not only in the government sector but as well as in the private sector. Aiming to provide its people with jobs, increase economic capacity, and develop the country’s building sector, the program has seen an infrastructure boom unseen in recent Philippine history. And this initiative is expected to bring the country closer to the progress it seeks.
Speaking of construction, let’s us lean away from the economic implications of the program, and dive into the environmental effects of construction in general.
Construction may not have the greatest impact on the environment but it’s the materials being used or the excessive amount of it that pose a threat.
Here are some of the most dangerous materials used in the construction industry that produce significant effects to the environment (and ones we must be mindful about).
1. Lead – large amounts of lead, even in synthetic materials such as children’s toys, pose a toxic threat to the environment. This poisonous material is commonly found in roofing materials, paints, and plumbing pipes.
2. Wood treatments – usually used to preserve the wood and keep it from rotting, these chemicals contain coal-tar creosote and arsenic that when ingested through contamination will cause poisoning which leads to abdominal pain, vomiting, and bloody diarrhea.
3. Asbestos – a respiratory irritant found in pipe covers, flooring, fireproofing insulation and adhesives. This material can cause chronic pulmonary disease and may end up in lung cancer.
4. Silica – a natural substance found in stone, sand, concrete, and tiles which can be inhaled through construction procedures that involve demolition, cutting, blasting stone or concrete. Silica is released through the air in these procedures which can be carried to the populace and long term exposure to this can cause lung infections and cancer.
5. Fiber glass – generally used as a thermal insulator and roofing material, fiber glass can be harmful, especially to workers who cut, grind and chop these materials into dust which mixes with air. These fine dust materials can cause eye, skin and upper respiratory irritation and asthma and bronchitis.
This is why green building is more crucial than ever before. We have contaminated our environment with so much wastes and harmful materials that sooner or later we’ll experience the brunt of its negative effects. Not only global warming but several other more life-threatening phenomenon as well.
Our unawareness of the materials we’re using in either simple or big constructions can be our own poison. These materials which are seemingly harmless can cause serious complications to our well-being, and if handled carelessly, can be damaging to the environment too. So being mindful and knowledgeable of the materials we use, especially the ones we bring into our homes, can be a great factor in making sure of our safety, security and overall health.
Sources:
https://www.constructionkenya.com/4426/dangerous-materials-construction/
http://business.inquirer.net/254682/understanding-build-build-build-program