Sustainability by Substance: Quality Engineering Over Cult Engineering
Engineering is fundamentally defined as the application of scientific and mathematical knowledge to solve the problems of mankind through the optimal utilization of resources. Here, optimization inherently signifies sustainability—highlighting that sustainability has always been an integral part of engineering, even before the formal recognition of “sustainable engineering” as a distinct concept.
In the context of the construction industry, this principle extends to minimizing material and energy consumption, prolonging the lifespan of structures, reducing waste, and lowering maintenance needs—even within traditional construction practices. These values have long been embedded in engineering methodologies, reflecting a deep-rooted commitment to efficiency and long-term viability.
Developed countries exemplify this philosophy, with their enduring infrastructure standing as a testament to the effectiveness of rigorous engineering principles. This resilience is not solely the outcome of recent sustainability initiatives but rather the result of a long-standing, value-driven approach to construction. First-hand experiences, in-depth theoretical understanding, and close collaboration between research institutions and ground-level engineers have all played a crucial role. Even the smallest elements embedded within conventional engineering practices, though they may not appear immediately essential, significantly contribute to the durability and dependability of built structures over time.
Even the engineering works in ancient India exemplify the importance of quality construction, underscoring that pursuing longevity and functionality is not a modern innovation but a timeless engineering value. Take, for instance, the 4,500-year-old drainage system of Mohenjo-Daro, which still functions today—a marvel recently highlighted by the Department of Archaeology. This ancient Indus Valley Civilization site showcases how thoughtful planning, precision in execution, and a deep understanding of natural systems allowed for creating infrastructure that withstood the test of time. Such examples reinforce that sustainable construction, rooted in quality and context-sensitive design, was practiced and perfected long before modern engineering tools and theories came into play.
Any attempts in engineering without this meticulous approach, driven by a deep understanding of the fundamentals and a commitment to long-term sustainability, are likely to lead to suboptimal outcomes. Structures built without careful consideration of material selection, construction techniques, and maintenance strategies may suffer from premature degradation, require frequent and costly repairs, and ultimately fail to serve their intended purpose effectively. This not only wastes valuable resources but also poses potential risks to public safety and the environment.
Balancing Endurance with Ecology: Rethinking Durability
Never in the history of mankind have natural resources been extracted as vigorously as they are today, says the work of Wellmer & Hagelüken, 2015. Simultaneously, never before have materials been engineered to outlive not just their users but also their own functional lifespans—often exceeding the thresholds of sustainability.
On the name of resilience and durability, modern manufacturing has given rise to products that persist far beyond their utility, becoming a major contributor to the global waste crisis. A compelling example is the vehicle tyre—crafted from high-strength rubber and treated with various chemical processes to withstand wear and tear. While this ensures durability on the road, it also raises critical challenges once the tyre is worn out. Its robustness becomes a liability, as recycling and repurposing such resilient materials remain complex and underdeveloped.
This situation calls for a paradigm shift in engineering practices—one that promotes the integration of recycled and repurposed materials, especially in construction projects where strength and longevity are essential. Technologies that accommodate materials like tyre rubber waste into infrastructure not only address the durability demands but also offer a responsible outlet for inert waste that would otherwise accumulate indefinitely. Such innovations embody the true spirit of sustainable engineering—one that balances durability with ecological responsibility.
References:
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- The Friday Times. (2022, September 19). Mohenjo Daro’s 4,500-Year-Old Drainage System Still Functions: Archeology Dept. https://thefridaytimes.com/19-Sep-2022/mohenjo-daro-s-4-500-year-old-drainage-system-still-functions-archeology-dept
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- BBC News. (2024, February 26). India’s ancient stepwells are engineering marvels. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c14jy2dd8jeo
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- Wellmer, F.-W., & Hagelüken, C. (2015). Challenges to global mineral resource security and options for future supply. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/270632875
Sowmya Chithaloori is a Research Assistant in the CRISP Global organization and Assistant Executive Engineer in the Telangana Roads & Buildings Department, with about 7 years of experience in public infrastructure. A dual master’s graduate with a strong foundation in geotechnical engineering and psychology, she is passionate about scientifically integrating mindful and circular sustainable practices into civil works as well as into her personal lifestyle.
