Lessons learnt from the design and construction strategies of two Norwegian low emission construction sites

Abstract

Over the last couple of years, research related to fossil free and emission free construction sites has developed rapidly in Norway, with an ambition to contribute towards global, national and regional emission reduction targets. Major public players are already demanding fossil free construction sites through public procurement, whilst requirements for emission free construction sites are on the way. Even though the Norwegian construction industry is a forerunner, there is a lack of knowledge or common understanding among different stakeholders on the definition, scope and strategies needed for fossil free and emission free construction sites. The aim of this paper is to present the main challenges and opportunities from the construction phase of two Norwegian zero emission construction sites, namely Campus Evenstad in Hedmark and Lia nursery school in Oslo. Construction activities considered include transportation and installation of building materials, construction machinery, temporary works, energy use, waste management and person transport. This paper presents and discusses the lessons learnt from the design, ambition levels, inputs from stakeholders, emission reduction solutions of these two construction sites, and evaluates methods considered to address conceptual and practical issues. In conclusion, this paper suggests lessons learnt for reducing GHG emissions from Norwegian zero emission construction sites.