Which strategies help reduce energy use and waste in building demolition and construction?

The strategy of restoring existing buildings and rehabilitating blighted structures is effective in reducing energy use and waste during building demolition and construction for several reasons.

Firstly, maintaining and upgrading existing buildings often necessitates fewer resources compared to constructing entirely new ones. The embodied energy within the materials of these existing structures is preserved, which means that energy consumption is significantly lower compared to the amount required to manufacture new materials. This practice aligns with sustainable development principles by minimizing the demand for new raw materials, thus conserving natural resources and reducing the carbon footprint associated with material extraction and processing.

Secondly, restoration and rehabilitation contribute to waste reduction by salvaging and reusing what is already available on-site. This approach mitigates the amount of construction and demolition debris that typically ends up in landfills. By focusing on refurbishment over demolition, it is possible to divert significant quantities of waste, which is especially pertinent in a context where waste management and environmental impact are critically considered in LEED assessments.

Additionally, rehabilitating older buildings can often lead to innovative design solutions that not only maintain the historical integrity but also enhance energy efficiency through modern updates such as improved insulation, energy-efficient systems, and renewable energy installations. This creates buildings that are both sustainable and capable of meeting current energy standards without the extensive