One of the major issues of the Gaza Strip is the impact of construction on the environment. In fact, most Gaza Strip residents have been affected by this pollution. They believe that the situation needs to be controlled, especially considering that the situation in Gaza is so serious. Polluted waterways and land are not the only effects of construction on the environment, the war also contributed to the pollution. This lack of environmental awareness is a serious issue that affects the livelihoods of residents.
The construction industry is one of the world’s largest sources of pollution, with massive direct and indirect impacts on the environment. In the Gaza Strip, massive construction projects are underway, which contribute to pollution, air and noise pollution, soil salinization, and potential radioactive hazards. Enshassi (2000) argued that it is necessary to develop a green ethic in Gaza and plan environmentally friendly construction projects. He also acknowledged that there is a need for an environmental assessment in Gaza.
In the United States alone, 534 million tons of construction material waste were created in 2014. Of this, 90 percent of the debris was discarded after demolition, and most of it was disposed of in landfills, incineration, or incineration. To reduce the environmental damage caused by construction, consider salvaging materials. Hardware, appliances, and fixtures can be reused, while brick, concrete, and metals can be recycled for driveway bedding and fill.
Moreover, construction activities generate a large amount of waste water. Wastewater from the construction site, sewage, and commercial activities are also responsible for generating pollutants. These pollutants are harmful to the environment, and they can affect the health of workers and residents of the surrounding area. In addition to these wastes, construction projects also produce a large amount of dust. Some of the major activities that contribute to this pollution are excavation, backfill, earthworks, bleaching, and tiling.
Hygiene conditions on the construction site rank second in the category of public effects. Many diseases are associated with this pollution. Also, dirty tools and equipment contribute to uncontrollable, unhealthy conditions. Workers are exposed to a large quantity of dust, chemical pollution, and vehicle exhausts. They also drink polluted water. The impact of construction on the environment is not limited to human health; it extends to animals. There are also numerous ways to improve the environment.
The study recommends that governments enact strict laws regarding the environmental impact of construction. These laws can help limit the negative impacts of construction by mandating early environmental impact assessments. With a greater understanding of the effects of construction, decision makers will be able to develop more environmentally friendly construction plans. This study highlights the importance of planning and monitoring before building new buildings and infrastructure. In the meantime, the study demonstrates that environmental impact assessments are an essential element of every development project.
