Green issues drive construction industry
A national survey commissioned by EOS Limited, an innovative manufacturer of light gauge steel buildings, has revealed that environmental issues are key drivers in the use of modern building methods in the construction industry.
Improving energy efficiency, complying with the code for sustainable homes, and cutting down on their carbon footprint have emerged as important business matters to the companies which took part in the research.
A majority of respondents also believed that the level of interest in modern construction methods was on the increase.
The surveys key findings included:
- Nearly 90% believed the use of off-site methods of construction was increasing.
- Nearly 70% thought the use of light steel frames was growing.
- More than 75% cited complying with the code for sustainable homes; 96% improving projects' energy efficiency and 94% improving their carbon footprint as being key business issues.
- 46% said they used light gauge steel frames in education schemes, 60.7% for health, 61% for office and 65.7% for industrial projects.
Reduced on-site working, lower overall project costs and higher quality due to off-site part assembly and production processes were flagged up as the main advantages of using Light Gauge Steel Frames.
The survey revealed that light steel frames were mostly used by construction firms for education, health, office and industrial projects.
EOS, which employs 32 people at Newton Aycliffe in County Durham, as well as being involved in those sectors, also designs and manufactures light gauge steel framing systems for social and private housing schemes.
Michael O'Connell, EOS Director, said: "The survey has thrown up some interesting data including the fact that firms embracing new construction techniques and technologies are being driven by environment concerns.
"The social housing sector, in particular, has been focusing on green issues such as sustainability and energy efficiency, but, as can be seen from our research, the construction industry in general is starting to take these on board."
The survey, which was conducted by think M. on behalf of EOS, was distributed to more than 5,000 construction-related firms including builders, architects, and developers across the UK.
Download the summary survey report 
