Eco-efficiency

Abstract

"New materials, products and technologies are in the long term the necessary way to reduce environmental impacts. Construction products play a major role in improving the eco-efficiency of building. Radical innovations are needed for a real change towards sustainability. " Memorandum of Understanding, COST C25, Sustainability of Constructions: Integrated Approach to Life-time Structural Engineering. Sustainable development, is development that is pursued in a manner that whilst meeting the present needs, does not compromise the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The papers presented in this chapter focus on two main areas: Identification & Evaluation of existing & new functional materials, construction products & processes, to comply with a reduction in the use of materials, a reduction of waste, reduction of emissions and energy saving goals. Improvement of the environmental performance of constructions, improvement of comfort in buildings, energy performance and the integration of innovative systems in buildings. Sustainability in Construction, necessitates a better comprehension of construction materials, their performance, and the impact of construction techniques, with the objective of the Conservation of Resources. Increased conservation of resources is one of the most significant principles of sustainability of buildings and constructions, which can also be achieved through the adoption of rational structural solutions, and the selection of construction materials of improved performance characteristics and increased strength. Increase in the specific strength of structural elements, leads to a decrease in material consumption. Serdjuks D. et al discussed the possibility of the development of hybrid composite cables of increased specific strength, using carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastics (GFRP) and Vectran, instead of steel cables. Hybrid composite cables with increased specific strength were considered for a prestressed saddle-shaped cable roof having dimensions 50m x 50m, leading to savings on materials and energy in the production process. (Serdjuks D., 2007, Composite Cable of increased specific strength, for large span structures.)