There have been reports of environmental improvement as people self-quarantined and humans from all around the world were less mobile. Carbon emissions are down globally as manufacturing, power generation and air travel came to a grinding halt only a few months ago. As a result, good air days were recorded regularly, for the first time in decades, in some of the most heavily polluted areas in the world. With tourism coming to a sudden stop, many major, natural tourist attractions are seeing environmental improvements; bodies are water clearer than they were before, and wildlife is returning to certain areas as biodiversity begins to make a comeback. Although the pandemic has afforded the environment a small break and a chance for the planet to rejuvenate, Scientists and Environmentalists are less optimistic. While the environmental improvements are something worth celebrating, more systemic and long-lasting changes are needed to sustain the progress that has been made.

 

In 2010, California implemented the first-in-the-nation mandatory green building standards code known as CALGreen. According to the official CALGreen website, “the purpose of this code is to improve public health, safety and general welfare by enhancing the design and construction of buildings. The goal is for positive environmental impact and encouraging sustainable construction practices in the following categories: Planning and design, energy efficiency, water efficiency and conservation, material conservation and resource efficiency, environmental quality.” California was leading the way in mindfulness and action in regards to environmental impact before the spread of COVID-19, and the virus will continue to push us towards positive evolution of our construction practices.

 

Along with the environment, we have also seen a shift in construction building priorities. With less traveling happening, construction has taken advantage of the decreased traffic as we see an increase in road work and infrastructure repair. The industry is seeing a shift with less new builds and more revitalization of existing buildings through renovations, remodels and tenant improvements. It’s been refreshing to see old, abandoned buildings given new life and purpose in their communities. We are currently turning old CVS stores, city buildings, and retired jails into new healthcare facilities!