Few industries are moving sustainability at a faster rate than precast concrete. As the technical and standard-setting institute for the precast/prestressed concrete industry, PCI's approach to sustainability is to provide information that is based on research and technical knowledge.
Precast/prestressed concrete can contribute to sustainable design in many ways. It is a versatile and durable material, produced in a factory by highly trained personnel with virtually no waste, under stringent quality control measures. Precast panels can be quickly erected on the jobsite with minimal disruption to the site and precast's thermal mass can save energy and increase comfort.
Explore this site for information based on PCI's vast knowledge bank for recommendations and best practices on how precast/prestressed construction can meet the energy, durability, and consumption concerns of today's sustainable designs.
Sustainable Design
Understanding some of the benefits of precast concrete can assist designers in evaluating the impact of precast concrete on the environment and the building operation.
The Building Envelope
Due to its density, concrete has the capacity to absorb and store large quantities of heat, contributing to a high-performance building envelope. The resulting savings can be significant—up to 25% of heating and cooling costs.
Life-Cycle Assessment
PCI engaged in a life-cycle assessment with Morrison Hershfield and the Athena Institute to investigate the environmental impact of precast concrete.
NAPCSPP
The NAPCSPP is a program designed to encourage continuous improvement and compliance with environmental and sustainability regulations and standards.
EPDs
The Canadian Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (CPCI), National Precast Concrete Association (NPCA), and Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) members have created Environmental Product Declarations for precast concrete manufacturing.
FAQs
Engineers and Architects often have questions regarding the sustainability of precast for their projects. PCI has put together a list of answers to common questions and concrete’s sustainability.
Greener Cement
The same durable, resilient concrete you depend on can now reduce your carbon footprint by 10%. PLC gives specifiers, architects, engineers, producers, and designers a greener way to execute any structure, paving, or geotech project, with virtually no modifications to mix design or placing procedures.
