Making America green while Making America Great.
We very rarely allow guest blogs here on DemolitionNews. But this article from Atlanta Demolition’ Daniel Spyralatos is both well-considered and timely. So we have gladly made an exception:
“…Unless you have been living under a rock, you are probably aware of the change in recent US politics and the new direction in which the United States is heading. This of course affects a bunch of different industries, including the construction industry. Campaign promises talked of great spending in infrastructure and policies that allow construction to basically expand more than ever.
With that in mind, many people with opposing views were and still are very concerned of the environmental effects such policies will have, as basically the focus will be now more on corporate profit rather than keeping an eye on the environment that future generations will be able to enjoy.
Some demolition companies – no matter how hard they get hit by regulations and environmental restrictions – always find ways to cut corners and build their empires with no regards to the side effects. Having said that though, no matter what political party was in power in the US, some contractors (not many but a few) were very much interested in solving these issues. Some basic respect towards environmental principles can be seen by some construction and demolition companies, but only a handful will go the extra mile.
One of those companies is Atlanta Demolition which focuses on recycling all construction materials that are being carried away from the deconstruction site. Materials such as lumber, metals, concrete asphalt etc, are always set aside for recycling purposes. I know that the average deconstruction company will do this. However, this company located in Atlanta, Georgia goes that extra mile and makes sure that those exact materials, are re-used on that exact site. A lot of the stones and dirt can be used for the foundations of the new structures, so they make sure they deliver these materials to the development company that comes in after they’re done.
The point I am trying to make in this short article is: don’t make a general assumption on the ways construction companies (or any company for that matter) operates. Just because some create a bad name, doesn’t mean everyone is in the same boat. Some people care about common good more than others, and don’t need law makers to keep chasing after them to act responsibly. So I think it’s important for everyone to recognize the efforts, some of these companies are making. Let us not judge on a mass scale but instead look at each case separately.
There can definitely be a balance between remaining profitable as a company, and not damaging other people, our values and Mother Nature…”
