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The global construction industry is largely responsible for carbon emissions and waste generation. New eco-friendly modern building techniques such as modular construction evolve to reduce the industry's carbon footprint. Modular constructions can create more sustainable buildings by minimizing waste and using materials more efficiently. The major share of landfill waste is generated from construction, and many companies worldwide seek solutions that can reduce or repurpose the waste. According to US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates, approximately 88 million tons of construction and demolition waste is added to landfills every year. Modular construction can reduce construction waste by up to 90% and is proven as one of the efficient offsite construction methods.
In modular construction, individual modules are manufactured in factories with better control over inventories. Materials are optimized by recycling the leftover materials for future projects, thus reducing materials waste to a greater extent. In addition, materials are also protected from severe weather conditions; otherwise, it is disposed of because of damage. This way, modular construction can reduce a large amount of waste compared to traditional construction methods. The elements produced by modular construction are of superior quality due to the controlled factory environment. Dry materials are used to prevent trapped moisture and, thereby, any moisture damage. For instance, the quality of elements such as insulation can be guaranteed.
Modular construction costs are lower than traditional construction products, requiring fewer resources and less time to finish a construction project. Generally, most of the work is done offsite; thus, less onsite time reduces rework or difficulties. Field software used at the time of the final assembly stage of the project resolves any difficulties or issues without any delay. Moreover, modular construction reduces the amount of heavy equipment required onsite and vehicles, resulting in less pollution and site disturbance.
The major advantage of modular buildings is that they are reusable and can be deconstructed without generating any demolition waste. Modular structures can be relocated, dismantled, and reused with minor modifications allowing double waste reduction. Modular constructions can incorporate energy efficiency measures directly in modules such as energy-efficient windows with coating, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and LED lighting with occupancy sensors.
Modular construction has witnessed significant growth in the past few years, accounts for 60-70% of offsite techniques used and reduces built time by 50-60%. Module selection is based on factors such as transportation dimensions, specific site logistics, installation & crane costs, and shipping distances to achieve optimal design efficiency. The modules' materials, such as eco-friendly materials, are also selected specifically for their performance characteristics.
Modular construction ensures all data can be validated and coordinated in a structured manner to provide accurate and reliable information to the client at the time of handover. It helps ensure product assurance and client satisfaction through the quality maintained in the build process. Modular construction enables customization according to the client's need as it allows any modifications or alterations in existing buildings without much disruption to adjacent buildings.
With the growing concerns about the environment to reduce carbon footprint, many modern construction methods are evolving. Modular construction is crucial in constructing more sustainable buildings by offering efficient, versatile, reusable, and high-performance structures. Modular buildings are easy to plan, budget, and quick to install and also deliver safe, high quality, and cost-efficient solutions in the construction industry. With the advent of the construction sector adapting to upcoming technologies, modular construction will be expected to record a significant growth rate in the coming years.
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