When we talk about sustainability in the construction industry, it is easy to gravitate towards environmental concerns such as reducing carbon emissions, conserving finite resources and implementing greener building practices. While these aspects are undeniably crucial, it is important to remember that they represent just one dimension of a business’ triple bottom line.

The triple bottom line is a concept which measures a business’ success in three areas: profit, people and the planet. However, the construction industry tends to have a greater focus on the environmental and economic dimensions of sustainability, with research showing that companies are the least concerned with the social sustainability side of a project ¹. Social sustainability encompasses a range of factors, including worker safety, inclusive design and community engagement, all of which play a vital role in ensuring that construction projects benefit the people involved and the communities they serve. Here are a few ways that construction companies and investors can boost social sustainability in a project:

1.) Source Local
Using local resources in construction projects may be more challenging to source, but it can also yield numerous benefits. Local materials and labour not only reduce the environmental footprint associated with transportation but also contribute to the economic growth of the community. By sourcing materials closer to home, construction projects can support local businesses, create jobs and strengthen regional economies.

2.) Design for Inclusivity
Inclusivity in construction means designing spaces that are accessible and welcoming to everyone, regardless of physical abilities, age or background. This could mean incorporating features such as ramps, wider doorways and accessible bathrooms to accommodate those with disabilities, or considering the needs of different age groups, from children to seniors.

Additionally, inclusive spaces often promote social interaction in communal areas and encourage the wellbeing of its inhabitants, for example, with areas for physical activity or plenty of natural light.

3.) Engage with the Community
Construction projects do not exist in isolation, they are an integral part of the communities in which they are situated. By listening to the concerns, needs and vision of the community for the local area, construction projects can better align with their values.

Involving the community can also help to identify potential issues early on, foster trust and build a sense of ownership among the residents. Collaboration can also lead to innovative solutions to overcome challenges and create a stronger bond within the community.

4.) Create Affordable and Energy-Efficient Housing
Affordable and energy-efficient housing is a critical component of social sustainability. Housing affordability directly impacts the well-being and financial stability of individuals and families. By designing and constructing energy-efficient homes, the long-term cost of living can be reduced, benefiting residents and the environment alike.

To achieve this, construction projects can incorporate sustainable building practices such as solar design, efficient insulation and renewable energy sources to cut down on energy spend and utility bills.

Case Study: Las Americas Social Housing
Located in the city of Léon, Mexico, the Las Americas social housing project is an alternative example of affordable, high-density housing that breaks away from the stereotypical drab, joyless apartment blocks. The architects for this project, SO-IL, collaborated with representatives from the City of Léon to rethink housing models in the city and develop a visually appealing vertical structure that would be both cost-effective and beneficial to the residents ².

The signature curves and facades of this building were designed to not only enhance the look of the exterior, but also to ensure that no two units face each other, allowing residents the same privacy that a free-standing home would afford. The design also incorporates large amounts of natural light, particularly in the open, landscaped communal spaces that encourage social interaction. By using prefabricated components in the structure, the cost of construction was heavily reduced to fit the limited budget available. Additionally, each concrete brick used to build this housing complex was small enough to be carried by hand, allowing for the creation of more local jobs in the project’s construction.

SO-IL’s engagement with the community and willingness to adapt their design resulted in an innovative, modern, and aesthetic structure, proving that affordable housing can be private, unique and thoughtfully designed while still adhering to a shoestring budget.

Author: Shirley Carruthers - Content Creator at ParkerSteel

References:
1. Frontiersin Article
2. ArchDaily