Sustainable Construction in Remote Cold Regions: Methods and Knowledge Transfer Webinar
- Sustainable Construction in Remote Cold Regions: Methods and Knowledge Transfer
- 09/23/2015
Presenter(s)
Robert A. Perkins, PE, PhD
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
- University of Alaska Fairbanks
Abstract
This research project identifies and codify environmentally sustainable construction practices for use by contractors operating in remote cold regions. Since these areas are typically relatively undeveloped, a large proportion of construction work is related to developing the transportation infrastructure – roadways, airfields, boardwalks, pipelines, and the like. The paper will describe an extensive industry-wide search for sustainable field construction techniques in use in milder, less-remote regions and then select from that large array those practices that appear to be practical for use in such cold, remote regions as Alaska. We will describe meetings with industry professionals that discussed and improved upon the preliminary recommendations, and the current status of the development of a final set of suggested practices. The project also involves knowledge transfer tasks that will make the findings available to contractors, owners, and others responsible for construction in remote, cold regions and to students of construction management.
Speaker Bio(s)
Robert A. Perkins, PE, PhD, is a professor of civil and environmental engineering at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Following a 20-year career of designing and building marine, industrial and heavy construction projects, his interest in human health and risk evaluation led him to pursue a doctorate in toxicology. His appointment in UAF’s College of Engineering and Mines combines teaching engineering and construction management, and teaching and research about the risks of chemicals and industrial materials to humans and the environment. His interest in stakeholder and risk communication often combines both management and toxicology. His recent research involves risks in government contracting methods, use of naturally occurring asbestos in roadway materials, succession planning and knowledge transfer in state DOTs, and oil spill remediation in the arctic.
