A University of Nevada research team is collaborating with the United States Army on its latest project from the Civil and Environmental Engineering department. Led by Assistant Professor Floriana Petrone and Associate Research Professor Sherif Elfass, the project aims to produce 3D-printed LEGO-like concrete modules for the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL).
The innovation stems from the U.S. Army’s need to construct on-site infrastructure in conflict zones where military operations are underway. This new approach combines advanced numerical simulation, 3D construction, and segmental construction—building large structures using smaller segment assemblies. Together, these create a simple but structurally sound bridge or building somewhat on the fly.
Technical innovation that goes beyond construction
3D printing is becoming more often associated with new housing construction, but Petrone’s experimental program, which began earlier in 2024, tests “bridging infrastructure.” They assemble 3-foot-long printed modules from concrete that are tested and numerically simulated. This computational innovation to simulate real systems through mathematical models is an effective way to validate the experiments.
Image source: Nevada Today
“The integration of numerical modeling with 3D printing and segmental construction provides a powerful tool for predicting structural performance before construction even begins,” Elfass says. “This allows engineers to optimize the placement of segments and the design of printed components, ensuring that printed structures meet the necessary strength and durability requirements in a variety of conditions.”
With their latest advancement in the product, the concrete components connect with cables, leaving out the need for specialized equipment. “Everything could be assembled manually on site,” Petrone said, referring to the cabling system. Specialized equipment likely won’t be available in a combat zone.
Sustainable materials are gaining momentum in construction, offering new building methods while reducing environmental impact. These alternatives address challenges like deforestation, carbon emissions, and resource scarcity. However, as options like bamboo, hempcrete, and 3D-printed materials become more common, one question remains: Will they eventually replace lumber? This shift could reshape an industry that has relied on wood for centuries.
What are sustainable materials?
Hempcrete blocks. Photo source: Tao Climate
Sustainable materials minimize environmental impact during production, use, and disposal. They are often sourced from renewable resources, require less energy to produce, and can be reused or recycled. Here are some of the top benefits of using sustainable materials during construction.
Benefits of using sustainable materials in construction
Environmental impact: Using sustainable materials helps reduce the carbon footprint of buildings, as they often emit fewer greenhouse gases during production and can sequester carbon over time.
Resource efficiency: Sustainable materials promote the efficient use of resources by being durable and requiring less maintenance, extending the lifespan of buildings and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Healthier indoor environments: Many sustainable materials are non-toxic and improve indoor air quality, contributing to healthier living and working spaces.
Waste reduction: By being recyclable or biodegradable, sustainable materials help minimize construction waste that would otherwise end up in landfills.
Incorporating sustainable materials into construction projects benefits the environment, enhances the well-being of occupants, and supports long-term economic savings.
Top sustainable materials in construction
The construction industry is increasingly adopting sustainable materials to reduce environmental impact and enhance building performance. Below are some of the leading materials making a significant difference:
3D printing materials
3D printing in construction, also known as additive manufacturing, involves creating structures layer by layer using specialized materials. Common materials include concrete mixes, recycled plastics, and composites. These materials are prepared to ensure proper flow and setting during printing. 3D printing is used to construct walls, entire homes, and complex architectural components, offering design flexibility, cost savings, and reduced waste.
Hemp and hempcrete
Hempcrete is a biocomposite made from the inner woody core of the hemp plant, known as shives, mixed with a lime-based binder. The hemp shives, binder, and water combine to form a lightweight, insulating material. Hempcrete is used for insulation, non-load-bearing walls, and as a sustainable alternative to traditional concrete. It provides excellent thermal and acoustic insulation and is breathable, reducing mold growth.
Bamboo
Bamboo is a fast-growing grass that matures in 3 to 5 years, making it a renewable resource. After harvesting, bamboo culms are treated to prevent pest infestation and decay. They are then processed into various forms, such as planks, panels, and structural components. In some regions, bamboo is used for flooring, wall panels, scaffolding, and structural materials in construction. Its high strength-to-weight ratio makes it suitable for earthquake-resistant structures.
Cork
Cork is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees without harming them, allowing the bark to regenerate. The harvested cork is boiled, ground, and compressed into blocks or sheets. Due to its resilience, sound absorption, and thermal properties, cork is used in construction for flooring, wall coverings, and insulation. It’s also hypoallergenic and resistant to mold and mildew.
Clay bricks
Clay bricks are made from natural clay extracted from the earth, shaped into molds, and then fired in kilns at high temperatures. This process hardens the bricks, making them durable and weather-resistant. Clay bricks are commonly used for building walls, facades, and pavements. They offer good thermal mass, helping to regulate indoor temperatures, and are recyclable at the end of their life cycle.
Should the lumber industry be concerned?
The rise of sustainable materials is undoubtedly reshaping the construction industry, but does this mean the lumber industry should be worried? While alternatives like hempcrete, bamboo, and 3D printing materials are gaining traction, lumber remains dominant due to its affordability, versatility, and long-standing role in construction.
One of the most compelling reasons lumber is likely to hold its ground is its inherent sustainability when responsibly sourced. Trees naturally sequester carbon, and wood products continue to store that carbon throughout their lifecycle. Compared to materials like concrete and steel, which are heavy contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, lumber has a significantly lower environmental footprint. Moreover, innovations in mass timber, such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glue-laminated timber (glulam), are opening new doors for wood in large-scale construction. These products allow taller wooden buildings and offer comparable structural integrity to traditional materials. For example, recent changes to building codes in British Columbia now permit mass timber buildings up to 18 stories, showcasing how wood is evolving alongside modern construction demands.
However, alternative materials are challenging lumber’s dominance. The global market for sustainable materials was valued at approximately $333.31 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to $1.07 trillion by 2034—an impressive annual growth rate of 12.41%.
As these materials become more affordable and scalable, they may carve out a larger share of the market. 3D-printed materials, for instance, are already demonstrating cost savings by reducing waste and construction time. Similarly, bamboo’s rapid growth and durability make it an appealing choice in regions with high seismic activity, where its flexibility can outperform traditional materials like lumber.
Yet, even with alternative materials becoming more usable, lumber remains unmatched in affordability and accessibility. Wood has been a cornerstone of construction for centuries, and its established supply chains make it difficult for new materials to fully replace it. Furthermore, lumber is not just cost-effective but also familiar to contractors and builders, who may be hesitant to shift to materials that require new techniques or equipment.
Future outlook
The lumber industry may face fluctuations as more sustainable alternatives gain popularity, particularly in niche applications. However, rather than being entirely replaced, it’s more likely that wood will coexist with other materials. Hybrid construction methods that combine the strengths of lumber with innovative materials like hempcrete or 3D printing composites could become the norm. Ultimately, while the emergence of alternative materials signals a shift in construction practices, lumber’s adaptability and affordability ensure it will continue to play a big role.
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A new initiative in British Columbia is reducing the significant plastic waste produced on construction sites. The program aims to tackle one of the construction industry’s biggest challenges: the environmental impact of single-use plastics. Led by Light House, with the support of the Recycling Council of British Columbia (RCBC), the Construction Plastics Initiative focuses on recycling and upcycling plastic materials that traditionally end up in landfills. This forward-thinking move is poised to make waves across the industry, potentially inspiring similar efforts in other regions.
Approximately 10% of all materials used in construction end up in landfills.
Why plastics in construction are a problem
Construction sites are notorious for producing large amounts of waste, much of it plastic. From packaging to protective coverings and materials like insulation, plastics are deeply embedded in the construction process. According to the RCBC, much of this plastic is single-use and ends up in landfills, contributing significantly to environmental pollution. Not only does this affect local ecosystems, but it also adds to the growing global problem of plastic waste. As BC aims to reduce plastic use in other industries, construction has often lagged in adopting sustainable practices.
The new initiative
The initiative aims to reduce plastic waste by focusing on the construction sector. The project is designed to upcycle plastic waste from construction sites into useful materials, including building insulation, plastic lumber, and even office furniture. By partnering with various industry players and waste management experts, Light House is creating a sustainable cycle that diverts waste from landfills into new, functional products.
In this pilot program, construction companies are encouraged to separate their plastic waste, which is then sent to specialized recycling facilities. The plastic is sorted, cleaned, and processed into reusable materials at these facilities. This method not only reduces landfill contributions but also turns what would be waste into valuable resources.
Industry response and potential impact
The program has already garnered significant interest from construction companies in BC, many of which are eager to reduce their environmental footprint. By making recycling and upcycling easier, the initiative will likely drive larger-scale efforts to reduce plastic use and waste across the industry. For companies, participating in this program helps them meet environmental goals and aligns them with growing consumer demand for more sustainable building practices.
The environmental impact of this initiative could be far-reaching, with the potential to influence the BC construction industry and the broader Canadian building sector. As the program expands and proves successful, it could become a model for other provinces and industries. This will help to reduce waste and set a precedent for circular economy practices in construction.
A bright future for sustainable construction practices
This plastic recycling initiative is an exciting development for the construction industry. It shows that environmental responsibility doesn’t have to come at the cost of progress. With more companies committing to sustainable practices, BC’s initiative could help change the entire industry’s approach to waste and sustainability. Whether by using fewer plastics or ensuring that what is used can be effectively recycled, the efforts in BC will hopefully spur similar initiatives elsewhere.
Construction professionals and contractors interested in joining this movement must rethink traditional waste management systems. By adopting innovative recycling and waste-reduction technologies, the construction industry can play a key role in reducing plastic pollution and contributing to a more sustainable future.
Click here for more details on the Construction Plastics Initiative.
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Checkr has unveiled a groundbreaking apprenticeship initiative to help individuals with criminal records secure opportunities in skilled trades. The program addresses workforce shortages by providing pathways to stable employment while promoting inclusion.
The initiative is built around Catalyst, a workforce development platform created by Checkr to connect justice-impacted individuals with job training and employment. The platform partners with major organizations and trade associations, including those in the construction sector, to create opportunities for workers who may otherwise face significant hiring barriers.
Construction, already grappling with a shortage of skilled workers, stands to benefit greatly from this initiative. Labor gaps have persisted, with many firms reporting difficulty finding qualified candidates. By offering training and support, Checkr’s program helps diversify the workforce and meet the industry’s growing demand for talent.
Apprenticeships provide the critical hands-on experience workers need to build careers in the skilled trades. For individuals re-entering the workforce, this can be a chance to develop skills in areas such as carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work—fields where demand for qualified professionals continues to rise. By aligning with trade unions and contractors, Catalyst ensures apprentices gain industry-specific training and real-world experience.
Employers involved in the program also benefit. Partnering with Catalyst allows companies to access a pool of motivated workers while reinforcing their commitment to social impact. Hiring individuals with diverse backgrounds fosters stronger teams and demonstrates an inclusive approach to business.
For the construction industry, programs like this have implications beyond just filling positions. A more inclusive workforce introduces new perspectives, innovation, and a deeper connection to the communities they serve. It also showcases the industry’s potential to lead by example in addressing societal challenges through meaningful action.
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Ontario has announced the Sixth Working for Workers Act, aiming to enhance workplace rights and protections across the province. This proposed legislation addresses critical challenges workers and industries face, from safety concerns to employment standards, ensuring Ontario’s workforce remains supported and competitive.
Building on earlier proposals, such as introducing new parental and long-term illness leaves, expanding cancer coverage for firefighters, and implementing WSIB reforms to return more funds to Ontario workers and businesses, this legislation also targets workplace safety improvements. It includes mandatory minimum fines of $500,000 for corporations found guilty of repeated violations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act within two years.
In addition, the government plans to enhance roadside safety by amending the Highway Traffic Act, requiring drivers to slow down and move over for highway maintenance and other roadworkers. These steps directly address industry concerns about retaining skilled workers and fostering a culture of accountability.
Additionally, the Act takes a progressive stance on worker-employer dynamics, emphasizing fair treatment for temporary and gig workers. This includes new regulations designed to close loopholes that leave these workers vulnerable, helping to create a more equitable labor market.
“As our government continues to bring back better jobs and bigger paycheques to Ontario, we are keeping workers healthy and safe no matter where they work: On a highway, a job site, or the shop floor,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development in a press release.
These changes are especially critical for Ontario’s construction industry. Enhanced safety measures could reduce job site injuries, while fair treatment policies aim to attract and retain talent in a sector experiencing significant labor shortages. By prioritizing these reforms, the government is supporting workers and helping industries remain resilient and forward-thinking.
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Vancouver is set to transform its False Creek shoreline with the approval of the design for East Park, a new 1.2-hectare waterfront outdoor area. With plenty of attractions around the Olympic Village area, such as Science World and Rogers Arena, the park aims to blend more natural beauty with modern urban amenities. It will feature waterfront paths, an exercise zone, and a central lawn that allows visitors to enjoy the scenery.
Features of East Park
The design emphasizes sustainability, accessibility, and community engagement, with features carefully curated to meet the surrounding area’s needs. Some of the features include:
Songbird tree grove: A serene retreat with braided paths and shaded seating, providing a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
Central lawn: A versatile open space perfect for casual gatherings and small community events, encouraging social interaction among neighbors.
Active zone: Next to the Creekside Community Centre, this area is dedicated to fitness and recreational programming, promoting health and wellness for all ages.
Separated walking and cycling paths: Waterfront routes designed for safe and accessible connections, linking neighborhoods, parks, and key destinations along the False Creek shoreline.
Accessible seating options: A range of seating areas thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and accessibility, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the inlet and surrounding city.
East Park’s design also thoughtfully integrates the area’s cultural heritage through collaboration with local First Nations. Indigenous artwork, as well as the use of hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh sníchim languages in signage and place names, will honor the land’s history while promoting education and intergenerational knowledge sharing.
With over 12,000 residents within a 10-minute walk and 34,000 within a kilometer, East Park is set to become a critical green space in one of Vancouver’s most densely populated areas. The park will also complete a seamless open space network along False Creek, connecting the Northeast and Southeast neighborhoods with pedestrian-friendly pathways.
Future outlook
Phase one of the project is slated to begin construction in late 2026, with completion anticipated by late 2028. Pending the results of ongoing engineering studies, future phases will focus on creating a lush, green shoreline habitat.
As Vancouver continues its urban evolution, East Park is a shining example of how thoughtful, inclusive design can bring nature, culture, and community together. This project will help bring more green cultural space to the False Creek area, offering a vibrant and accessible area for people to enjoy during their time off.
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The U.S. construction industry is facing a potential crisis. President Trump’s plan to deport millions of undocumented workers might hit a sector that relies heavily on immigrant labor right where it hurts.
Here’s the reality: immigrants are the backbone of construction. In 2022, they made up about 25% of all construction workers across the U.S. and an even higher 31% of skilled tradespeople. That number jumps to over 40% in states like California and Texas.
And let’s not forget the impact of undocumented workers. They make up a significant part of this labor force, with around 1.5 million undocumented immigrants working in construction—about 13% of the entire workforce. That’s a huge piece of the puzzle that could be at risk.
Potential impact of mass deportations
Taking a huge chunk of workers out of the construction industry would make a tough situation even worse. Labor shortages are already a major challenge, and things could spiral further. In fact, the Associated Builders and Contractors Trade Association estimates the industry will need nearly 454,000 new workers by 2025 just to keep up with demand.
Competition for qualified workers could increase labor costs if the workforce shrinks dramatically. And when costs rise, construction slows down—projects take longer, housing becomes more expensive, and infrastructure upgrades get delayed. That’s a domino effect the economy doesn’t need.
It’s also important to remember that undocumented workers aren’t just contributing their labor but also paying taxes. Billions of dollars in federal, state, and local taxes come from undocumented immigrants working in construction and their households.
Addressing illegal immigration is no simple task, but the economic ripple effects of mass deportations could hit the construction industry hard. With labor shortages already putting pressure on the sector, this kind of disruption could create serious challenges for both construction and the broader economy—especially as we work to tackle housing shortages and build essential infrastructure.
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McCarthy Building Companies has officially begun construction on the Advanced Technology Lasers for Applications and Science (ATLAS) facility at Colorado State University (CSU). The $150 million project will house state-of-the-art laser systems, enabling groundbreaking energy, materials science, and medicine research. Once completed, ATLAS will serve as a hub for scientists, students, and industry professionals, positioning CSU as a laser-based research and development leader.
Rendering of the ATLAS building. Photo source: McCarthy Building Cos.
Designed with sustainability in mind, the ATLAS building emphasizes energy efficiency and modern design. The facility features specialized laboratory spaces, collaboration zones, and cutting-edge equipment to support interdisciplinary projects. By bringing researchers together under one roof, the building is expected to foster innovation and expand CSU’s role in advancing global scientific solutions.
ATLAS represents more than just a research facility for the Fort Collins community. It promises economic growth, partnerships with local industries, and educational opportunities for students in STEM fields. By fostering partnerships with local industries, the facility aims to connect groundbreaking academic research with real-world applications, creating a ripple effect that benefits the entire region.
For students, ATLAS opens the door to hands-on learning, internships, and exposure to cutting-edge technology, providing them with invaluable experience for their future careers. The building aims to bridge academic discovery with practical applications by integrating advanced technologies and fostering collaboration.
This project highlights McCarthy Building Companies’ commitment to creating innovative spaces for research and education. As construction progresses, CSU is poised to shape the future of science and technology through this new addition to its campus.
Known for its expertise in creating technologically advanced structures, McCarthy is bringing its extensive experience to CSU’s campus. The ATLAS facility represents a significant step forward in creating a collaborative environment where researchers, students, and professionals can work together to tackle complex scientific challenges. As construction advances, CSU stands to solidify its role as a global leader in laser research, offering resources and opportunities far beyond the university’s walls.
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The construction industry is once again grappling with the impact of rising lumber prices. As of November 18th, 2024, prices have surged to $605 per thousand board feet, up significantly from earlier this year. For builders and contractors, this escalation signals challenges for project budgets, timelines, and even housing affordability.
Why lumber prices are rising
Lumber prices have been on the rise due to a perfect storm of supply chain challenges, environmental pressures, and international trade disputes. Lumber is foundational to almost every project, from framing residential homes to constructing massive commercial buildings. When prices rise sharply, it forces builders to make tough decisions: scale down projects, absorb the costs, or pass them on to clients. Tradespeople, in particular, are feeling the effects, as tighter budgets could mean fewer jobs and a slowdown in ongoing projects.
Here are the key factors driving these price hikes:
Mill closures: Over the past year, major lumber producers like Canfor and Western Forest Products have reduced their output due to unfavorable market conditions, cutting North American production by over 3 billion board feet. These closures disrupt supply chains and create scarcity, directly driving up prices.
Environmental factors: The mountain pine beetle infestation continues to wreak havoc on forests, reducing the availability of harvestable timber. This has diminished resources in regions traditionally supplying the bulk of North America’s lumber needs.
Trade tariffs: The U.S. has increased tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber imports from 8.05% to 14.54%, exacerbating supply constraints and elevating costs for U.S. builders. With Canada supplying over 25% of the U.S.’s lumber, this trade policy has caused significant disruptions.
The impact on the construction industry
Rising lumber prices create compounding challenges that affect every stage of construction, from planning and procurement to labor and delivery. Higher costs mean tighter margins for contractors, increased bids for clients, and potentially fewer opportunities for tradespeople. It’s a domino effect that affects the entire industry ecosystem.
Here’s how the current price hikes are playing out across the sector:
Escalating project costs: Lumber price increases are inflating building budgets, often forcing developers to rethink project feasibility. For example, residential housing, which relies heavily on lumber for framing and interior structures, now costs significantly more to complete.
Delays and cutbacks: Builders are delaying project starts or reducing the scope of their builds to align with tighter budgets. This is especially problematic for larger projects, where small percentage increases in material costs can translate to millions of dollars in overruns.
Housing affordability concerns: Higher costs for builders inevitably trickle down to buyers, making homes more expensive and exacerbating the existing affordability crisis. With high interest rates, the added financial burden could put homeownership out of reach for many.
Pressure on trades: Tighter budgets can lead to reduced hiring or cuts in subcontracted trades, creating job insecurity for workers.
Rising lumber prices are adding fuel to the fire for an industry already navigating economic uncertainty and labor shortages. Adapting to these changes will require creative problem-solving and a focus on long-term resilience.
Industry response and future outlook
In response to these challenges, some construction companies are exploring alternative materials like steel or concrete for framing despite their own fluctuating costs. Others advocate for policy changes to address trade restrictions and supply chain disruptions.
The outlook for lumber prices remains uncertain. While some experts predict stabilization in 2025 as supply chains adjust, others warn that ongoing environmental and regulatory pressures could sustain elevated prices. For now, construction professionals must navigate this volatile landscape with careful budgeting and contingency planning.
Lumber remains and is likely to remain a cornerstone of construction, with mass timber becoming increasingly popular. However, its rising cost is a sobering reminder of the sector’s vulnerability to global and regional disruptions. With no immediate relief in sight, the industry must remain adaptive to weather these challenges.
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Concrete is the most used building material in the world; in fact, it is used twice as much as any other material in construction. Now, a new framework, the CarbonStar Standard, has been created to reduce the carbon footprint of concrete in Canada and the U.S.
Greg Kats, CEO of the Smart Surfaces Coalition, explains the importance of this new framework: “CarbonStar is the only binational standard for the quantification and verification of the carbon intensity in concrete. We are working with cities that make up more than 10 percent of the US population, and our city partners all want to cut pollution and become more resilient. CarbonStar is essential because it is the first user-friendly standard enabling cities to effectively quantify and decarbonize their concrete.”
The CarbonStar system was modeled on the EnergyStar program for appliances. It measures the carbon intensity of concrete to encourage builders to use more environmentally friendly materials. The CardonStar program was developed to support more sustainable construction practices and provide easy-to-understand guidelines and transparency.
The CarbonStar standard will be applied in the United States and Canada. The system was created to address the need for a universal approach for calculating the carbon intensity of concrete. The standard would allow design and construction professionals to quantify the carbon content of various concrete products and apply that standardized system across projects, materials, or production methods.
Sarah Saltzer is part of the committee that developed the CarbonStar standard and is Managing Director of the Stanford Center for Carbon Storage within the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability. She says this system is essential to combat climate change: “Successful climate-change mitigation and carbon sequestration requires rigorous consensus standards. CarbonStar provides this for the essential effort of decarbonizing concrete.”
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