The Imperative of Sustainable Foundations in Construction

As we enter 2024, the construction industry stands at a pivotal crossroads. The choices we make today will shape our environmental footprint for decades to come. In this spirit of forward-thinking and responsibility, we delve into the critical role of sustainable foundations in construction.

The Urgency for Sustainable Foundations

Sustainable foundations are no longer just a 'nice-to-have' aspect of construction; they are an imperative. With the increasing awareness of climate change and its impacts, the construction industry must pivot towards practices that minimize environmental harm. Ground screws, as an innovative solution, offer a beacon of hope and efficiency in this realm.?

Environmental Benefits

Ground screws represent a paradigm shift in how we approach foundational work. Traditional methods, often involving extensive excavation and concrete, lead to significant land disturbance and carbon emissions. In contrast, ground screws are installed with minimal ecological impact, preserving the natural state of the land and significantly reducing carbon footprints.?

Economic and Practical Advantages

Sustainability is not just about environmental benefits; it's also economically sensible. Ground screws offer a faster, more flexible, and often more cost-effective foundation solution. They reduce the need for heavy machinery, minimize on-site disturbances, and drastically reduce construction times. This efficiency translates into direct cost savings and less operational downtime for businesses.?

Case Study

Client & Challenge:

StopDigging NZ Ltd collaborated with Oxcon/CLL and HEB to tackle an ambitious project: constructing a 1km boardwalk, 5 meters wide, designed for light vehicle access. The challenge was formidable. The original design with large driven piles was impractical due to tough topography, proximity to a high-voltage rail line, and sensitive archaeological areas. Additionally, the remote location through unused bushland posed significant access issues.?

Innovative Solution

StopDigging's Country Manager, Jude Hickson, and Novare Design, a structural engineering firm, re-envisioned the project. They proposed using StopDigging’s SGC ground screw foundation system for the boardwalk and the SGN ground screw for adjacent security fencing. This nonconforming tender, focusing on reduced environmental impact, was successfully accepted.?

Construction Approach

Two methods were employed:

·??????? Ground screw with SG EL steel pile extensions and diagonal bracing for most of the boardwalk.

·??????? Ground screw with SGE125 bracket for 125x125 Senton pile extension and standard timber bracing in Tahapa Reserve for aesthetic considerations.

The Result

The StopDigging ground screw system, capable of installing a pile supporting a 100kN load in under 5 minutes, proved to be a game-changer. The handheld equipment used for installation drastically reduced overheads and environmental impact, starkly contrasting the effects of large machinery. This method was particularly advantageous in areas with difficult access, steep slopes, and near sensitive archaeological zones. The ground screws, set to a datum, also eliminated construction waste, showcasing an efficient, environmentally friendly, and aesthetically pleasing solution for challenging terrain.

Looking Ahead

As we embark on new projects in 2024, it's essential to integrate sustainability into our foundational practices. By adopting ground screws, companies not only contribute to a greener planet but also embrace a smarter way of building.