Every year, on April 22, we come together to observe Earth Day—a time to remind ourselves of the responsibility we have to take care of the planet. This year, Earth Day 2025 focuses on the theme ‘Planet vs. Plastics,’ highlighting the urgent need to fight plastic pollution and protect both the environment and human health.
While it’s easy to think of plastic pollution as something far away, often out of sight in the oceans, it’s closer to home than we realize. From construction waste to the packaging we use daily, even industries that promote sustainability are still dealing with plastic. The good news? We can change the way we build.
The Hidden Plastic Problem in Construction
Plastics have long been a go-to material in construction—used for everything from piping and insulation to finishes and packaging. Though these materials are convenient, many of them are neither recyclable nor biodegradable. This means they end up in landfills and release microplastics into the environment.
The building sector is responsible for about 20% of global plastic consumption, and as a green building consultancy, this is where we need to make a difference.
How Green Building Can Help Combat Plastics
- Transparency in Materials: By choosing products with Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), Health Product Declarations (HPDs), and Low VOC certifications, we can make informed decisions and avoid materials loaded with plastics, toxic chemicals, and harmful emissions. It’s about knowing what’s in the products we use—and choosing better for people and the planet.”
- Circular Construction: It’s about reusing and repurposing materials instead of always reaching for new plastic-based products.
- Sustainable Alternatives: Let’s turn to materials like bamboo, recycled steel, compressed earth blocks, and bioplastics as alternatives to plastic-heavy construction.
- Packaging & Procurement: We can work with suppliers to cut down on plastic packaging by opting for bulk materials or biodegradable packaging options.
What Can You Do?
Tackling plastic pollution doesn’t just fall on industries; individuals can make a real difference too. Here are a few ways to get started:
- Refuse Single-Use Plastics: Carry reusable bottles, bags, and cutlery to avoid plastic waste.
- Choose Refillables: Instead of buying disposable packaging, look for refill stations or reusable containers.
- Support Eco-Conscious Brands: Look for products and brands that are committed to being plastic-free or that carry eco-certifications.
A Call for Change
How we choose to build today will shape the planet we leave for future generations. Every small decision we make has an impact, and that’s something we can’t ignore. Sustainability isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about all of us making choices that truly matter and create lasting impact. Every small step we take can lead to meaningful change. So this Earth Day, let’s take a stand for a plastic-free future—one that focuses on sustainability, regeneration, and a healthier planet.
