The built environment has a profound impact on our planet. From the way we design and construct buildings to the materials we use, every aspect of the built environment has the potential to either harm or help. As a leading property development company on the KZN North Coast, we recognise the critical role sustainability plays, and we are committed to being at the forefront of this movement.
Sustainability in the built environment refers to the use of environmentally responsible design, construction, and materials to create buildings that have minimal impact on the planet, while also providing comfortable and healthy living spaces for the people who inhabit them. It’s a holistic approach to design and construction that considers the entire lifecycle of a building, from the sourcing of materials to the eventual decommissioning and demolition of the building.
One of the key components of sustainability in the built environment is energy efficiency. By designing and constructing buildings that use less energy, we can reduce our carbon footprint and help to mitigate the effects of climate change. This can be achieved using insulation, passive solar design, and energy-efficient HVAC systems.
Another important aspect of sustainability in the built environment is the use of sustainable materials. This includes the use of environmentally friendly building materials such as bamboo, recycled glass, and recycled plastics, as well as the use of materials that have been sourced from responsibly managed forests and mines. Additionally, it’s essential to consider the waste generated by construction projects, and to work to minimise this waste through the use of waste-reduction strategies such as recycling and composting.
Sustainability in the built environment also involves creating buildings that are accessible and usable for people with disabilities. This includes designing buildings with ramps, wide doorways, and accessible bathrooms, as well as ensuring that buildings are equipped with features like elevators and handrails that make it easier for people with disabilities to navigate them.
At Devmco, we believe that sustainability is not just a trend or a passing fad, but a critical component of responsible development and construction. That’s why we have made a commitment to integrating sustainability into all of our projects, from the planning stage to the final build. This includes developments such as Salta Sibaya, Capri Village for over 50s and the Marine Walk Shopping Centre.
Whether we’re constructing new buildings or retrofitting existing ones, we work closely with our partners and suppliers to ensure that our projects are sustainable, both environmentally and socially.
Sustainability in the built environment is about more than just using environmentally responsible materials and construction methods. It’s about creating spaces that are healthy and comfortable for people to live and work in, while also minimising the impact of our buildings on the environment. By embracing sustainability in the built environment, we can help to create a brighter and more sustainable future for ourselves, our communities, and our planet.