Geotechnical Perspective on Sustainable Construction in Sweden

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                                                                      Geotechnical Perspective on Sustainable Construction in Sweden

David Nguyen^a

^aSkanska Sverige AB, Gothenburg, Sweden

ABSTRACT

With the signing of the Paris Agreement in 2015, the world committed to taking measures to limit the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C, with the aim of capping it at 1.5°C. To achieve this goal, greenhouse gas emissions must be halved by 2030 and reduced to near zero by 2050.

The Construction and Real Estate sectors greenhouse gas emissions account for about 22% of Sweden's total emissions. Additionally, the sector significantly contributes to emissions abroad through imported goods.

A recent study indicated that emissions from ground works accounted for approximately 33-36% of the total emissions of a 36-floor building in Gothenburg. This is significant, especially considering that only emissions slab foundations are included when submitting a climate declaration for a new building.

As a geotechnical engineer, tools for reducing the climate impact can be used. For instance, in the early stages, select construction sites that necessitate minimal geotechnical works or implement measures to reduce soil settlements. During the construction stage, conduct comprehensive field and laboratory investigations to optimize your temporary geotechnical works, accounting for materials while meeting safety requirements.

The gap in knowledge is still substantial concerning climate impact in relation to geotechnical works, but more focus is being invested in research, the subject is in demand and steps are being taken forward.

The construction and real estate sector are on the right path on helping Sweden fulfil the commitments of the Paris Agreement, but the clients and stakeholders need to shift their focus from cost-driven to climate-driven in future project for the climate impact to seriously reduce. Hopefully the shift is immense and of highest priority, if not for our sake, then for future generations.

KEYWORDS

Paris Agreement; Greenhouse Gas Emissions; Climate Impact; Geotechnical Works

28th European Young Geotechnical Engineers Conference (EYGEC2024)

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