Darlington market will have a distinctly 1920s feel next weekend as its exciting new venue – a Prohibition-themed bar opens to the public. Friday March 31 sees the much-anticipated launch of The Vault. Oozing sophistication the bar will be home to everything from a grand piano to top quality craft
Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of multi-sector construction and civil engineering projects, has been appointed by commercial property developer, Stoford, to deliver two industrial warehouses. This second development phase at Redditch Gateway will complete the 78-acre site, near Junction 3 of
British Land unveils first homes at Canada Water, London’s newest sustainable district surrounded by green space and waterways British Land launches its first homes, a collection of 186 studio, one, two- and three-bedroom net zero apartments, at The Founding, Canada Water. The launch of this 35-storey residential building – designed
As the industry looks to address the gender imbalance, Jackie Maginnis was certainly ahead of her time not only as a high-profile woman in construction but also in promoting the benefits of advanced building technologies. With a long and illustrious career, more recently in the modular and portable building industry,
Southern Construction Framework (SCF), a leading construction procurement framework delivered by the public sector for the public sector in the South of England, has announced the awarded contractors for its 5th generation SCF Construct framework, which includes new £1-5million value lots for the South West region. 20 contractors have been awarded a
Construction workers across South London are highlighting the benefits of becoming an apprentice in a bid to increase numbers. More construction apprentices are needed across the region as figures reveal thousands of workers will need to be hired to help ensure some of the city’s biggest projects are completed on
The construction industry provides jobs to millions of people around the planet. This is to say that millions of people may or may not put groceries on the table depending on whether or not the necessary materials for the project at hand are made available on time. In turn, the
In today’s modern world, technology has revolutionized the way we work. From emails to project management tools, digital technology has become an essential component of any business. One of the most significant advantages of this digital transformation is its positive impact on the environment. Some of the major environmental benefits
Darlington market will have a distinctly 1920s feel next weekend as its exciting new venue – a Prohibition-themed bar opens to the public. Friday March 31 sees the much-anticipated launch of The Vault. Oozing sophistication the bar will be home to everything from a grand piano to top quality craft beers, real ale, creative cocktails, small plates and charcuterie. The launch weekend will also see those sampling the bar for the first time able to soak up an array of 1920s-themed entertainment including jazz singers, burlesque performances and flapper girls. The bar, which opens from Thursday to Sunday 12noon until 11pm, is the centrepiece of the transformational works at the much-loved market and part of a successful blueprint from operators Market Asset Management Darlington Ltd and Darlington Borough Council for the venue to grow as a food, retail, and live entertainment destination. Phase 2 of the redevelopment which began in August 2022 also includes revamped shop front fascia and entrances, a new shop floor café, new public and trader toilets on the ground floor and new toilets to the basement. Impressed Councillor Jonathan Dulston, leader of Darlington Borough Council has visited the bar as the finishing touches were being put in place. He said: “This is an amazing transformation and fantastic to see unused parts of this historic building brought back into use, adding to the appeal of the market for a wider variety of people. “We’ve got an excellent bar and evening entertainment scene in Darlington and I’m sure The Vault will become a firm favourite for many.” Market officials describe the bar as “a cavern of historic and industrial splendour offset with glamorous, velvet furnishing, softening the rough edges”. A century-old Grand Piano takes centre stage, to be used by established acts and any passing musicians who wish to entertain the crowd. As you would expect from a bar with a New Orleans-inspired jazz music vibe it will play host to live performances from jazz musicians throughout the year. And its drinks menu is as impressive as the décor and furnishing. The Vault will be offering a selection of 12 keg beers and four cask ales including a variety of styles, from pilsners and Weissbier to stouts and IPAs sourced from local producers, continental breweries, and a couple of more commercially recognisable products to cater for different tastes. Officials said the bar also offers a “rather seductive cocktail menu” with a range of both classic and contemporary cocktails, along with a carefully selected range of whisk(e)y, gin, rum, tequila, wine, and more. The market has remained fully open during the second phase of the development with minimum disruption to traders and shoppers. Works have seen the exterior of the building revamped with a new black and cream colour scheme replacing the old green one complete with traditional handwritten signage lovingly crafted by local artist and sign writer Ste Robson. An old walled-off area has been demolished to create a new glazed space which will be complemented with a new café next year. New toilets have also opened and there will be more opening in the basement when the new bar opens. MAM’s Darlington General Manager, Michael Harvey said: “The Vault is a fantastic addition and I know people can’t wait for it to open and sample its splendour. “Balanced background music and a mellow temperament will make this the perfect hideaway to unwind with friends, chat with strangers, and let evenings get lost in good times. Every corner is littered with curiosities, history, and secrets waiting to be uncovered by those who venture into The Vault. “It is a fitting centrepiece to the tremendous transformational works at the market as part of our unwavering commitment to ensure this is a place people love to shop, eat, drink and be entertained. As well as our amazing global cuisine and independent retail offering we are proud Darlington Market continues to shine as an events venue.” The exciting new chapter follows the successful first phase of the revamp which opened to the public in August 2021. It saw one third of the shop floor transformed into a street food scene with independent food traders offering cuisine from around the world from purpose-built units and a large communal seating area. Doors open to the public on launch night, Friday March 31 at 6pm. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of multi-sector construction and civil engineering projects, has been appointed by commercial property developer, Stoford, to deliver two industrial warehouses. This second development phase at Redditch Gateway will complete the 78-acre site, near Junction 3 of the M42, south of Birmingham. Works commenced on 13 March and handover is scheduled for the end of 2023. Stoford and Winvic are targeting Net Zero Carbon in operation for both buildings, as well as BREEAM Excellent and an EPC ‘A’ rating. BIM Level 2 is being utilised to help achieve these goals, but also to accelerate the end-to-end process, identify and resolve construction package clashes rapidly, and help end-users to efficiently operate in line with the building’s design intent. One industrial warehouse is 142,100 sq ft with two-storey offices totalling 18,400 sq ft and the second comprises 257,100 sq ft of warehouse and 29,600 sq ft of three-storey office space. They have been designed to meet the widest of occupier demands with 50 kN/m2 floor loading capacities and 15m clear heights, as well as access to high-power supplies of 9.5MVA, more than six times the institutional standard. The earthwork programme to create the development plateaus has begun and will comprise 108,000m3 of cut and fill and the diversion of two courses of Blacksoil brook, which currently cross the site. The foundations will be installed from May and the eight-week steel frame erection programme commences in July. Ecological enhancements to grasslands will also be undertaken as part of the project. The industrial facilities have been forward funded by specialist European independent real estate investor, Blackbrook, which will acquire the freehold interest in both new developments upon their completion in Q4 2023. Phase one of Redditch Gateway saw the development of a new 534,000 sq ft warehouse building that was pre-let to Amazon and included a £6.5 million investment in infrastructure works and a signalised traffic junction. Winvic is also currently constructing and fitting out a 667,000 sq ft UK parts distribution centre at Ellesmere Port for Stoford, which will be complete in winter 2023 and has pre-let to Peugeot. Danny Nelson, Winvic’s Head of Industrial, Distribution and Logistics, said: “We have built a relationship with Stoford over a number of years, and I’d like to thank them for once again appointing Winvic as their construction partner. The latest approach to digital design is being employed on the Redditch Gateway scheme and it’s facilitated faster and clearer insights and solutions across the design, materials, construction programmes and sustainability. The team has already made some great progress in the past week preparing for the watercourse diversion and we look forward to handing over the two facilities in December 2023.” Stoford Joint Managing Director, Dan Gallagher said: “We are developing two highly specified logistics assets with Blackbrook, that will offer significant benefits to occupiers in terms of connectivity, power supply and future-proof ESG credentials. Redditch Gateway is an exciting logistics manufacturing development in a key distribution area that is serving demand in a supply constrained regional marketplace. Winvic is a long-term, trusted partner and we are looking forward to seeing these quality assets rise out of the ground in the coming months.” Jon Strang, Managing Director of Blackbrook, said: “We’re delighted with Stoford’s progress on this project and to be closer to bringing two new logistic facilities to the market. Both assets boast a high power supply and are being built to the highest sustainability standards, making them high in demand and perfectly aligned with Blackbrook’s strategy to develop future-proof supply chain infrastructure.” For more information on Winvic, the company’s latest project news and job vacancies please visit www.winvic.co.uk. Join Winvic on social media – visit Twitter @WinvicLtd – and LinkedIn. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
British Land unveils first homes at Canada Water, London’s newest sustainable district surrounded by green space and waterways British Land launches its first homes, a collection of 186 studio, one, two- and three-bedroom net zero apartments, at The Founding, Canada Water. The launch of this 35-storey residential building – designed by architects Allies and Morrison – is the first chance to buy at this new central London district as it undergoes a rejuvenation as a place to live, work, play and relax. The expansive open plan homes within the flagship residence, The Founding will provide unique panoramic views across London from large, metal framed feature windows and private balconies. The bespoke interiors have been carefully curated by award-winning design studio Conran and Partners. Brushed stainless steel, matte finish feature ironmongery, polished concrete-style worktops and European oak flooring have been incorporated to reflect the area’s rich heritage as a former shipping and timber heartland and a working dock during the 18th and 19th centuries. In homage to the 160 acres of surrounding woodlands, parks, docks and waterways, and in keeping with the sustainable vision of the Canada Water masterplan, a mix of natural and sustainable materials have been incorporated to create a contemporary and elegant feel. High recessed ceilings feature exposed concrete and designer track lighting, while soft furnishings include 100% wool carpets, linens, textured fabrics, and recycled materials. Three separate and distinctly designed roof terraces on floors 6, 29 and 32 will feature extensive and lush planting inspired by Ecuadorian rainforests. From these rooftops residents will have exclusive skyline views to enjoy sunrise looking east over the River Thames to Canary Wharf, and sunset looking west with the stunning London skyline of Tower Bridge, The Shard and St Paul’s Cathedral. Amenities within the building include an impressive mezzanine-level resident lounge that will provide home working and social spaces, in addition to flexible areas for private gatherings and entertaining. Emma Cariaga, Head of Residential and Joint Head of Canada Water, at British Land, said: “Canada Water is the most ambitious and sustainably driven regeneration project underway in London. The launch of The Founding presents a rare opportunity to purchase a home at the very start of a high-profile masterplan and be a part of an incredible revitalisation story. A whole new district and destination for London, will be created at Canada Water, with the rest of London on the doorstep. Canada Water is incredibly well-connected to central London, minutes from London Bridge, and has huge untapped potential – it’s incredibly exciting. “Sustainability has been prioritised through the design and delivery of every element of the new homes and reflects rising consumer awareness of the need to make sustainably driven decisions in every aspect of our lives. The apartments at The Founding will benefit from panoramic views across London’s skyline while being surrounded by an incredible amount of greenery, from parks to woodlands and the River Thames.” Nina Coulter, director at Savills, comments: “The demand for not only green spaces but homes near water continues to grow from all types of buyers. Canada Water will provide an abundance of wide green spaces adding huge health benefits to residents from cleaner air to improving well-being. Increasingly, buyers are looking for areas that provide a natural environment and a resilient, sustainable urban fabric, that will add value to their recreational time as well. Schemes such as Canada Water in particular provide a valuable opportunity to build nature into the core of a development offering. “British Land is creating a new district for London focusing on providing not only great apartments to live in, but a whole new way of living in the capital. The apartments at The Founding have been created with huge attention to detail, and stunning outside spaces. The incredible, uninterrupted views show how close Canada Water is to the City and Canary Wharf, and with the Jubilee Line and Elizabeth Line both easily accessible, West London is not far away either. Savills views Canada Water as the most exciting launch of 2023.” Culture, Creativity and Community | Canada Water, British Land’s 53-acre masterplan is set to deliver 3,000 net zero homes, office space for an estimated 20,000 workers and up to one million sq. ft. of leisure, cultural and education facilities. This once in a lifetime project will be a net-zero neighbourhood by 2030, achieved through materials innovation and a sustainability first approach to all elements of design and construction. From earth friendly concrete to an all-electric energy strategy which uses 100% renewable electricity, to heat sharing between offices and homes, to finding inventive ways to give old buildings a new lease of life. Canada Water will have 12 acres of new open space, including a 3.5-acre park, a new Town Square, the first new high street in London in a generation and 16 new streets. The destination is served by the Jubilee Line, London Overground and TfL bus services, with proximity to the best of art, culture, nature and nightlife that London has to offer. Prices for homes at The Founding at Canada Water start from in the region of £696,650. First homes at The Founding are scheduled to complete in Autumn 2024. For sales enquiries, please visit www.thefounding.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
As the industry looks to address the gender imbalance, Jackie Maginnis was certainly ahead of her time not only as a high-profile woman in construction but also in promoting the benefits of advanced building technologies. With a long and illustrious career, more recently in the modular and portable building industry, for over 50 years she has been involved in construction related businesses. Starting her working life at SGB (Scaffolding Great Britain) in the Plant Hire Division, later transferring to SGB Rovacabin (the hire division now part of Wernick Group), Jackie held various positions from Northern Regional Manager to National Operations Manager and everything in between. It was her work involving the product design and development of modular buildings that caught the attention of the Modular and Portable Building Association (MPBA) and in 2005 she was invited to join and take up the position of Chief Executive – a role she still holds today. With a mission to develop a wider understanding of what can be achieved using volumetric modular construction, Jackie gives credit to the public sector. “As an early adopter of modern methods of construction (MMC), councils and local authorities were using volumetric modular technology across all sectors in the 70’s and 80’s particularly to cope with a rapid increase in the need for education buildings as a result of the post war baby boom. This was very much the development ground for MMC – backed by thinking way ahead of its time.” “We cannot yet claim to be ‘mainstream’, but we have seen a dramatic uptake in volumetric modular technology which is now considered as category one in the MMC Frameworks,” said Jackie. “The support for government projects, particularly in healthcare and education, has come from lobbying over the years from the MPBA and our members, to get specification and procurement changes in place. In the wake of more backing from Westminster, we have witnessed an increase in investment and modular construction frameworks across all public sector projects.” Jackie states that as the industry association, the MPBA has a mission to educate and dispel misconceptions and highlights an example. “A few years ago, there was a mistaken belief that a volumetric approach stifles design capabilities. But then new architects came to the fore that not only embraced modern methods of construction but proved without doubt the design potential of modular technology.” Jackie agrees that we have since moved on and most understand the predictability, productivity, quality and safety gains achieved in volumetric manufactured buildings. But when asked if she had any frustrations, Jackie said: “As ever ‘the devil is in the detail’ and there is still an element of confusion particularly in some areas of government and wider trade bodies which is naturally causing some disconcert within the MPBA fraternity. “This is predominately driven by a lack of understanding of the different requirements between the modular commercial and residential sectors. Policy is being dictated by the perceived growth in residential markets and then applied to the mature commercial sector – the pitfalls surrounding this approach are obvious. Then there are the global markets, particularly in the US and EU where construction methods are totally different and we cannot apply the same protocols as the UK, which is a world leader in not only volumetric modular technology but building standards. “The term ‘modern methods of construction’ was reintroduced in 2019 by Communities and Local Government following a specific commitment made in the 2017 white paper fix our broken housing. The MMC Framework that followed as a result was specifically written for large scale housing projects but has been continually implemented across the wider non-domestic sectors where modular construction techniques have matured over several years. There are significant differences in the supply chain, design factors, risk profiles and significantly, terminology used. The MPBA has released a Non-domestic Guide to Modern Methods of Construction Categories to raise awareness.” “Modular construction quite rightly has to conform to Building Regulations, so for example, combustible materials have been banned for use on the external walls of new buildings of at least 18 metres containing one or more dwellings since 2018. To our dismay a brochure promoting a trade body in the building safety arena, has an image of a timber module being craned onto about the tenth storey. Clearly not a UK development, but this lack of attention to detail, particularly by those who are involved in setting the standards, is disappointing to say the least.” After all these years in the industry, Jackie is still totally committed and fiercely passionate about representing the MPBA and its members. But when asked ‘what’s next’ Jackie said: “We need to ensure policy decisions are evidence based for the good of not only the modular industry and the wider construction sector but most importantly to ensure the best outcomes for building owners and occupiers. There is still much work to be done, so I intend to continue on my mission to promote modular for some time to come!” MPBAThe MPBA plays a key role in the connecting of sectors in the modular and portable building industry. The association collaborates with specialist technical advisors to enhance innovation in the design and manufacture of volumetric modular buildings. These can be designed and manufactured from timber or steel in any size and shape to meet individual client needs while ensuring full compliance with building regulations. To discover how volumetric modular technology can benefit construction projects visit: www.mpba.biz Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Southern Construction Framework (SCF), a leading construction procurement framework delivered by the public sector for the public sector in the South of England, has announced the awarded contractors for its 5th generation SCF Construct framework, which includes new £1-5million value lots for the South West region. 20 contractors have been awarded a place on SCF Construct of which 12 are new to the framework. The winning contractors for the £4m+ lots are: South West – BAM Construction, Bouygues UK, Galliford Try Construction, ISG Construction, John Graham Construction, Kier Construction, Morgan Sindall Construction & Infrastructure, Tilbury Douglas, VINCI Construction, Wates Construction, Willmott Dixon Construction South East – Bowmer & Kirkland, Galliford Try Construction, ISG Construction, John Graham Construction, Kier Construction, Mace, Morgan Sindall Construction & Infrastructure, Tilbury Douglas, Willmott Dixon Construction London – Bowmer & Kirkland, Galliford Try Construction, ISG Construction, John Graham Construction, Kier Construction, Mace, Morgan Sindall Construction & Infrastructure, Tilbury Douglas, Willmott Dixon Construction Winners for the £1-5m lots in the South West are: AJC Group, EW Beard, Halsall Construction, Kier Construction, Knights Brown Construction, Mildren Construction, Morgan Sindall Construction & Infrastructure, Nevada Construction, Stepnell, Tilbury Douglas Construction. Created to support public sector construction and development in the region, across all sectors including education, health, local authority, leisure developments, SCF Construct is available to all public bodies in the South East, London and the South West. This latest generation includes additional lots for the South West, between £1m and £5m, which brings local expertise to clients in the region and the potential to access new local supply chains. Winning contractors were put through a robust bidding process for the new generation framework, which will be launched in May 2023. The framework will give public sector organisations access to a full range of public sector construction solutions and includes access to construct-only or design and build, construction, and management services. A commitment to provide a trustworthy, equitable, and ethical vehicle for delivery based on greater transparency and governance underpins the framework. For its 5th generation, SCF has chosen contractors that can demonstrate exemplary carbon benchmarking assessment for all builds and has prioritised carbon retrofit capabilities as part of its industry leading Carbon and Social Value targets. SCF is the market leader in Two Stage Open Book project delivery, under which the framework will operate exclusively. This Government-recommended delivery method is part of an initiative to reform UK construction practices and is unique in the way it brings the contractor, stakeholders and suppliers together at the very start of a construction project. Adam Sanford, SCF Operations Lead, London & South East, said: “It was important for us in approaching this latest SCF Construct bidding process to ensure that it was an open and transparent process to attract the widest set of contractors. As a result, we are delighted to have some new faces working with us, bringing valuable new expertise to our construction schemes.” Kingsley Clarke, SCF Operations Lead, South West said: “Via our new sub £5m lots, we’ve also opened the door to SME contractors in the South West and we’re very much looking forward to working with them and their local supply chains on some innovative schemes in the region.” The new generation SCF Construct complements the current SCF Residential and SCF Consult frameworks which have delivered over £8 billion worth of combined construction schemes in the last 16 years since SCF was first established. For more information on the 5th generation SCF Construct framework go to https://southernconstructionframework.gov.uk/our-frameworks/scf-construct/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction workers across South London are highlighting the benefits of becoming an apprentice in a bid to increase numbers. More construction apprentices are needed across the region as figures reveal thousands of workers will need to be hired to help ensure some of the city’s biggest projects are completed on time. A collection of apprentices, former apprentices and tutors from colleges and businesses across South London have joined forces to shine a light on the benefits of having a career in construction. One of those is assistant site manager Jannai Mason-Dennis who is working on a site in Kensington, creating a luxury multi-million-pound property with contractor Walter Lilly. The campaign includes two virtual information events, which are taking place later this month – see further below for details. Jannai, 24, has finished his apprenticeship and said it’s fantastic to see others around him following in his footsteps. “Before my apprenticeship, I worked as an unskilled labourer on the Battersea Power Station Project,” he said. “I knew I liked the industry, and being a labourer you not only see everything that happens on site but you get to chat with tradespeople about their work. Doing an apprenticeship was recommended to me by another labourer. “Since starting my apprenticeship family and friends have seen what a positive impact it’s had on me and a few of them have also decided to do an apprenticeship in construction.” Jannai said there are a number of benefits to doing an apprenticeship and he feels it has set him on the right path to a good career in construction. “An apprenticeship is a way to earn while you learn,” he said. “I was keen to increase my skillset in construction but wanted to do it while earning money and my apprenticeship ticked all the boxes. “I completed a site management apprenticeship and achieved an NVQ Level 3 then moved on to an NVQ Level 6. I was on site most days with one day a week at college, which suited me because I’m definitely a hands-on learner. Besides the day-to-day running of the construction site I also learnt a range of other important skills, such as communication. My apprenticeship definitely made me a better speaker and taught me to work with people from all walks of life. “I’d encourage anyone thinking of doing an apprenticeship to go to their college and have a chat with the tutors. It’s a great career to have and in ten years’ time I’d like to be a senior site manager or site operations manager. My main aim is the work up the career ladder in construction.” Jannai is working with the South London Partnership (SLP) in a bid to encourage more people to become construction apprentices – and also to attract construction tutors. The SLP is a sub-regional collaboration of five London boroughs: Croydon, Kingston upon Thames, Merton, Richmond upon Thames and Sutton. Supported by the Mayor of London, the campaign comes after research revealed a shortage of workers in the construction industry. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) recently released its annual Construction Skills Network (CSN) report which shows that Greater London needs 22,800 extra workers by 2027 – that means an annual recruitment boost of 4,560. The campaign is seeing councils, colleges and businesses in South London working together to find the construction apprentices and tutors needed across the industry. The virtual events include one for anyone wanting information on becoming a tutor on March 27 at 5pm https://www.eventbrite.com/e/become-a-tutor-in-construction-find-out-more-tickets-576344861997 and one for apprentices on March 30 at 4.30pm https://www.eventbrite.com/e/apprenticeships-in-construction-find-out-more-tickets-576195144187 For more information email csl@southlondonpartnership.co.uk or visit http://southlondonpartnership.co.uk/skills/mayors-construction-academy-hub/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The construction industry provides jobs to millions of people around the planet. This is to say that millions of people may or may not put groceries on the table depending on whether or not the necessary materials for the project at hand are made available on time. In turn, the availability of construction materials depends on the availability of intermediate chemicals such as resins, adhesives, polymers, admixtures, and additives used in manufacturing them. This piece seeks to shed some light on five different types of intermediate chemicals used in construction, starting with where you can find them. Where to Buy Intermediate Chemicals, e.g. Melamine In an age where construction and real estate are some of the fastest-growing industries, one of many things holds true. You can find a wide range of intermediate chemicals to suit your construction needs at your local home improvement store or a reliable chemical plant online. And if your guess is as good as anyone’s, this includes the popular melamine. It is used in the production of some of the most commonly used resins among construction businesses, thanks to its notable stability against wear and tear, robust strength, and cost-effectiveness. These resins are often a precursor in the production of decorative laminates, adhesives, molding compounds, flame retardants, and concrete additives, among others! Other Common Intermediate Chemicals in Construction Intermediate chemicals are essential components used to manufacture building materials used in construction projects. They provide strength and flexibility to ensure end products like paints, adhesives, concrete mixes, and mortar have increased durability against wear and tear over time. Besides melamine, some of these crucial chemicals include formaldehyde, acrylics, phenolics, and isocyanates; all of which are valuable ingredients worth learning about for any growing construction business. Formaldehyde is one of the most popular intermediate chemicals used in construction. It’s a reliable bonding agent that provides superior adhesion properties and thermal stability, while also offering protection from weather damage and oxidation. Also, it can be used to increase resistance to impact and fire damage on surfaces like walls, floors, or roofs being built with concrete mixes or plasterboard sheets. Acrylics are another set of essential intermediate chemicals that add durability and water resistance to construction projects. They have the ability to bridge small gaps in masonry, making them ideal for intermediate chemicals, such as sealing around windows and doors or even creating sealant joints along a building’s exterior walls. In addition, they can be added as integral components of concrete mixes to improve strength and reduce cracking due to weather conditions or subsidence. Phenolics are perhaps the most versatile intermediate chemicals used in construction. They can be used to create strong and durable surfaces, waterproof paint jobs, and fireproof sealants. Additionally, they provide anti-corrosion properties which makes them ideal for use on metal structures such as bridges or industrial buildings that need superior protection from corrosion. Phenolic compounds also provide excellent self-healing abilities when applied over any type of defect in a substrate material like steel or concrete. Isocyanates are versatile, intermediate chemicals used in constructions that provide excellent adhesion properties and waterproofing capabilities. They can be used to seal joints along external walls, stabilize brickwork, or grout elements between tiles. Furthermore, isocyanates offer the final layer of protection against moisture ingress, which makes them ideal for semi-porous surfaces such as plasterboard or plywood sheets. They help prevent any further damage from dampness and water infiltration over time in manufactured board products. In conclusion, intermediate chemicals such as resins, adhesives, polymers, admixtures, and additives are essential components of the construction industry. These provide – amongst others – durability, robustness, and waterproofing capabilities to building materials, which makes them an invaluable part of today’s society.
In today’s modern world, technology has revolutionized the way we work. From emails to project management tools, digital technology has become an essential component of any business. One of the most significant advantages of this digital transformation is its positive impact on the environment. Some of the major environmental benefits of going digital at work include: Reduced Paper Waste The transition from paper to digital has reduced the amount of paper waste generated by businesses. In the past, offices used to consume large amounts of paper to print documents, memos, and reports. However, with the introduction of digital technology, employees can now store and share documents electronically. This has significantly reduced the need for printing and has, in turn, reduced the amount of paper waste. According to research, an average office worker in the U.S. generates about 2 pounds of paper waste per day. Multiply this by the number of workers in an office, and you can imagine the amount of paper waste generated. By going digital, businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the environment. Make the switch from a paper-wasting sticky note planning system and go digital instead. Lower Carbon Emissions The use of digital technology has also led to a reduction in carbon emissions. One of the significant contributors to carbon emissions is transportation. In the past, businesses used to transport large amounts of paper documents and products from one location to another. However, with digital technology, documents and products can be shared electronically, reducing the need for transportation. In addition to transportation, the use of digital technology has also led to a reduction in energy consumption. In the past, businesses used to consume large amounts of energy to power their offices, particularly for lighting and cooling. However, with the introduction of digital technology, businesses can reduce their energy consumption by using energy-efficient devices and systems. Reduced Energy Consumption The use of digital technology has also led to a reduction in energy consumption. In the past, businesses used to consume large amounts of energy to power their offices, particularly for lighting and cooling. However, with the introduction of digital technology, businesses can reduce their energy consumption by using energy-efficient devices and systems. For instance, businesses can use laptops and tablets instead of desktop computers, as they consume less energy. Businesses can also use cloud computing services, which are more energy-efficient than traditional servers. By reducing energy consumption, businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the environment. Increased Efficiency Going digital at work can also lead to increased efficiency, which can have a positive impact on the environment. By using digital tools, employees can work more efficiently, which can reduce the time it takes to complete tasks. This, in turn, can reduce the amount of time employees spend in the office, reducing the need for lighting, heating, and cooling. In addition, digital tools can help businesses streamline their operations, reducing the need for resources such as paper, ink, and storage space. By reducing the use of these resources, businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the environment. Reduced Water Usage Finally, going digital at work can also lead to a reduction in water usage. In the past, businesses used to consume large amounts of water to produce paper products. However, with the transition to digital, businesses can reduce their reliance on paper products, reducing the amount of water used. In addition, the use of digital technology can also reduce the need for physical meetings. In the past, businesses used to hold face-to-face meetings, which often required employees to travel long distances. This not only led to carbon emissions but also led to the consumption of water and other resources. By using digital tools such as video conferencing, businesses can reduce their reliance on physical meetings, reducing the need for resources such as water. Positively Impact the Environment The environmental benefits of going digital at work are numerous. By reducing paper waste, carbon emissions, energy consumption, and water usage, businesses can make a positive impact on the environment. In addition, going digital can increase efficiency, streamline operations, and reduce costs, making it a win-win situation for both the environment and the business. As we continue to advance in technology, it’s important for businesses to recognize the environmental benefits of going digital and take steps to minimize their impact on the environment. By doing so, businesses can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also contribute to a sustainable future.
