Wednesday, May 20, 2015

Concrete in the news

Two stories from the world of concrete:

The DJC, as part of its "Building with Concrete" section, has recognized the Stone34 building for 'Sustainable Merit'. The building is certified LEED Platinum, and concrete-related sustainable aspects include stormwater reuse, exposed concrete for thermal mass, and a variety of other methods.
More information at: https://www.djc.com/news/co/12077658.html

Dutch researchers are exploring methods to add bacteria to concrete mixes. The bacteria produce limestone when exposed to oxygen and provided with a set of nutrients which are added to the concrete mix design. The bacteria are exposed to oxygen when cracking occurs, and the intent is that the limestone produced then heals narrow cracks. Cost is currently an issue with mixes about double the typical cost.
More information at: http://www.durabilityanddesign.com/news/?fuseaction=view&id=13183

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Carbon Leadership Forum provides updated concrete PCR

The Carbon Leadership Forum has updated their PCR for concrete. From CLF:




In response to request by LCA practitioners preparing Concrete EPDs, the attached clarification to the CLF Concrete PCR has been issued.


This provides guidance on how to allocate truck (transit) energy that is used to mix concrete for plants in which the concrete is mixed in the truck, not in the plant.  This clarification is posted on the CLF website http://www.carbonleadershipforum.org/epds-and-pcrs.html

Tuesday, May 5, 2015

Disaster Resilience by SEI Committee on Sustainability

Disaster Resilience White Paper

Disaster Resilience Working Group Chair, Tonatiuh (Tona) Rodriguez-Nikl announced that the working groups white paper on the topic has been published:
I'm happy to announce that the Disaster Resilience White Paper is finally published online at http://tiny.cc/DisResSust. This white paper explains how disaster resilience is indispensable to sustainability and is a great resource for sustainability professionals who want to get started in resilient design. Please share this white paper with anybody who might be interested.
The white paper covers design guidance for resilient design, disaster mitigation, and quantification of disaster resilience benefits through life cycle assessment.