Water is an essential resource for civil construction : its use covers a series of applications, such as dust suppression during the excavation phase, soil compaction, mortar preparation, cement concrete mixing, cleaning, landscaping... In addition, there is also wastewater, which often needs to be treated before being reused or disposed of in the natural environment, and water that is used in the manufacturing process of various materials, such as steel, brick, aluminum and glass.
There are several resources for water conservation, such as water-saving devices, rainwater harvesting systems, and installing a water reuse system to reduce the need for drinking water. In addition, one should consider the use of materials with a smaller water footprint.
What should be avoided?
Any and all practices that result in some type of water waste should be avoided, such as: not installing any rainwater collection and distribution system; using drinking water for activities in which reused water would be more appropriate; not monitoring or disclose data on water consumption on site; and not seek alternatives to materials with a high water footprint. Are wheel washers and tap washers essential on all construction sites?
Practices such as wheel washing and tap washing can be carried out with non-potable water and prevent waste that accumulates on the wheels of trucks on construction sites from ending up scattered on the streets. When this happens, when it rains, this waste ends up clogging storm drains. , preventing water from draining and causing flooding. How to train the construction team?
Awareness-raising and mobilization actions are essential to promote more conscious water consumption in construction projects. Through lectures, workshops and other types of communication actions, it is possible to share information with employees so that they are able to contribute to the sustainability of the project. . However, it is essential that these professionals have support and conditions to adopt such practices in the work environment, as well as it is interesting to use tools to monitor water consumption and thus obtain quantitative results of the actions implemented. In addition, communication channels can be implemented between employees and construction managers so that potential waste can be reported for possible corrections. The Akatu Institute is an organization that, among other activities, helps companies implement sustainability strategies with a focus on material issues. and in the development of more sustainable alternatives in the production chain.[newsletter] 
