Traditional Construction Methods Threaten Environment, Expert Warns

A civil engineering expert, Dr Murtadha Adekilekun, says the negative impact of traditional construction methods needs urgent attention to safeguard the environment from total collapse.

Adekilekun, a senior lecturer at the Department of Civil Engineering, Osun State University, said this at the 3rd Annual Distinguished Lecture of Engr. Timothy Abiona on Friday in Osogbo.

The lecture, which had as its theme “From Waste to Wall: Pioneering Eco-friendly Building Solutions,” was organized by the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NSE) in Osun.

According to him, traditional construction methods depend heavily on non-renewable resources and usually generate significant waste and carbon emissions.

Adekilekun also said that the construction method always leads to resource depletion in areas of high demand for sand, gravel, limestone, and timber.

He added that the sector accounts for nearly 40 percent of global CO2 emissions, largely from material pollution.

Adekilekun, however, said that building construction using waste materials that seemed useless were now being harnessed innovatively to construct eco-friendly, durable, and sustainable buildings.

“This approach not only diverts waste from landfills but also reduces the environmental footprint of construction projects.

“Using waste-derived materials to construct walls, bricks, panels, blocks, or entire building structures, thereby turning discarded materials into valuable building assets,” he said.

According to him, waste-based building materials reduce landfill waste, conserve natural resources, lower material costs, and reduce transport costs, among others.

“The journey from refuse to refuge is not only feasible but essential for building a resilient and green future,” he said.

He, however, noted that the absence of consistent specifications for waste-derived materials, aesthetics and safety of waste materials, and inconsistent supply, among others, were some of the challenges facing the construction method.

In his remarks, the chairman of the association, Engr. Bashiru Abiola, said that the theme of the lecture was timely and essential.

Abiola said that in a world grappling with environmental degradation, climate change, and the mounting challenges of urban waste, the responsibility lies heavily on professionals like NSE to chart a new course.

“Today’s event is not just another lecture; it is a convergence of minds and passion dedicated to the advancement of civil engineering and sustainable development in Nigeria.

” It is a celebration of excellence, legacy, and commitment to innovation, all embodied in the person of the celebratory, a fellow of our great Institution, a mentor, and a beacon of professionalism”, he said.

The highlight of the lecture was the presentation of gifts to Engr. Abiona, whose birthday coincided with the event.