Major GC to halve site operations’ emissions, water consumption

Sources: Turner Construction Co., New York; CP staff

One of the top North American general contractors and forerunners in reinforced concrete construction has adopted a program to clip present levels of greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption at construction sites by 50 percent through 2030. Turner Construction views the Green program as an elevated approach toward environmental sustainability. 

Since it made a formal commitment to becoming a green builder in 2004, the contractor has logged more than $60 billion of related projects. Along the way, crews have diverted 3 million tons of construction waste from landfills and further reduced environmental impact through a range of sustainability measures in job site and corporate operations. 

“These efforts alone are not enough,” says Turner Construction Director of Sustainability Julia Gisewite. “Extreme weather events, climate change and their impact on people and the built environment are calling for us to seek new and enhanced ways to utilize our technical expertise to create a healthy, prosperous and sustainable future for our people, clients and the environment.” 

The Green program, she adds, has three prongs: Environmental Efficiency, Resiliency and Green Building. “[Our] comprehensive approach to sustainability relies on the innovation, creativity and resourcefulness of our people. We are committed to work with our clients and partners to seek out ways to make a difference on our building projects on behalf of our future and for the generations to come,” Gisewite affirms.