DFI-EFFC Panel Discussion-PPT Presentation

PPT Presentation
Pdf Summary
The DFI–EFFC International Conference session examined how sustainability is defined and put into practice across geotechnical construction, manufacturing, consulting, and engineering. It emphasized that sustainability extends beyond environmental performance to include social responsibility and economic viability.<br /><br />BAUER described organizing its sustainability work around business themes and four value-chain areas. Its examples focused on reducing equipment impacts: selecting the right drilling method can cut fuel use by 50–70%, while more efficient equipment can reduce it by 10–30%. BAUER also reported that its Energy Efficiency Package had saved more than three million liters of diesel across over 500 machines. Electrification is another strategy, with battery-powered rigs suited to lower-performance work and grid-powered equipment for higher-performance applications.<br /><br />Keller North America framed sustainability around “Planet, People, and Principles.” Its initiatives include trials of renewable diesel, solar-powered generators, and lower-carbon materials; efforts to improve mental health, safety, diversity, and education; and partnerships with manufacturers, suppliers, and academic researchers.<br /><br />Van ’t Hek highlighted responsibilities to employees and communities, including professional development, health and financial coaching, local sponsorship, and community support. Environmental measures include solar power, recycling, more efficient vehicles and equipment, and offering clients emission-free or carbon-neutral project options. The company also connects profitability with decent work and reinvestment in people and the planet.<br /><br />AECOM described a broader approach involving resilience, social outcomes, net-zero emissions, and governance. It noted that better ground investigation can reduce uncertainty in design, potentially lowering the need for concrete and associated carbon emissions. AECOM also reported that its emissions-reduction targets were approved by the Science Based Targets initiative.<br /><br />Overall, the presentations showed that companies can pursue sustainability through practical operational changes, improved design, responsible employment, community engagement, and collaboration.
Keywords
sustainability
geotechnical construction
energy efficiency
electrification
carbon emissions
renewable diesel
social responsibility
science based targets
community engagement
resilience