Every construction project shapes our environment, usually for a long time. This requires a willingness to take responsibility and, as a result, the most positive overall balance possible in order to create long-term value. A complex task for which all parameters must be coordinated from the outset. Grey energy - i.e. the energy required to construct the building - is of central importance in this consideration. 

Then there are the grey emissions. This includes all emissions generated by the building over its entire service life until it is demolished (cradle to grave). This gives rise to numerous starting points that we take into account during the planning/design stage and through which the support structure has a positive influence on the sustainability of a building.

The use of renewable raw materials, the consistent reduction of resources used and the recycling of used materials (reuse principle) are key factors when considering sustainability. It is worth reviewing and adapting the materials used accordingly. More environmentally friendly load-bearing structures can be built using recycled steel, for example. The use of concrete with a lower proportion of clinker saves up to 30% CO2. Lightweight constructions can reduce the materials used to the necessary minimum.

The reduction of reinforcement ratios offers another major savings potential. Here at MVD, we have developed a special calculation model with which the degree of reinforcement can be reduced to a minimum. Timber as a renewable raw material - provided it comes from regional and sustainable forestry - can replace many structures made of steel and concrete and enables support structures with a very good CO2 footprint.