Sustainability – relevant words and expressions
Everyone talks about sustainability, but what does it actually mean? We have created a list of relevant words and expressions that are used within our field.
The UN defines sustainability as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” Based on this, the UN has drawn up a working plan or Sustainable Development Goals, which entail, for example, measures for more sustainable cities and societies, responsible consumption and production, clean energy, as well as focus on innovation and infrastructure.
What does sustainability mean for us?
At OBOS Block Watne this means that we build homes that are specifically tailored for a more eco-friendly lifestyle for residents. This includes:
- Electricity and other forms of energy from renewable sources
- Green common areas
- Minimal car traffic in the neighbourhood
- Easy access to public transport
- Bike parking
- Roof vegetation and other green measures for stormwater management
As one of Norway’s leading actors in the construction industry, this also means that everything we do in the construction process will be focused on sustainability and the environment. We are particularly focused on this throughout the value chain, from the procurement of raw materials, logistics, operations and the actual construction phase.
What is renewable energy?
Clean power, or renewable energy, are energy sources derived from nature’s own cycle, which are constantly replenished by new energy and which can therefore be regarded as unlimited.
In Norway, we are very smart at utilising clean power from renewable energy sources. In fact, 90% of Norwegian energy production is from renewable sources. The greatest source of clean power in Norway is hydropower. With more than 1,600 hydropower stations around the country, hydropower constitutes over 94% of Norwegian production. This is followed by wind power and thermal power, which constitute 3.5% and 2.2% of the total, respectively, i.e. most domestic power in Norway comes from renewable sources of energy.
Why is HSE important?
Health, Safety and the Environment (HSE) are important to ensuring that employees feel safe and secure at work. At OBOS Block Watne we have implemented a number of procedures and measures throughout our housing projects and we have particularly focused on reducing sickness absence, the frequency of strain injuries, as well as accidents and incidents at construction sites.
At OBOS Block Watne we want all employees to feel feel assured that their safety, well-being and personal development is being addressed every single day of the year.
We also try to ensure that all apprentices have a safe and secure workplace at OBOS Block Watne. Apprentices will enter a system that has good procedures, the safest working conditions and the most competent people in the business. Up-and-coming carpenters will be looked after and ensured good working conditions for the entire period.