Building for Tomorrow: Upholding the 7 Principles of Sustainable Construction

At Morcon Construction, sustainability isn’t just an idea—it’s embedded in the way we build. With our significant experience partnering with public municipalities and major infrastructure projects like at MSP International Airport, we understand that true sustainable construction must integrate seamlessly into every phase of a project, from preconstruction planning to final handoff.

Sustainable construction is built on three pillars—environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic viability—and is guided by seven essential principles. Here’s how Morcon embraces these principles, ensuring that every project supports a greener, more resilient future.

 

1. Sustainable Design: Collaboration From the Start
While our primary focus is on construction, achieving sustainability goals begins long before the first shovel hits the ground. Morcon works closely with designers, architects, engineers, suppliers, and subcontractors to ensure that sustainable strategies are incorporated early. This collaboration helps optimize building orientation, maximize natural light (passive solar design), and specify high-performing, sustainable materials like recycled steel, cross-laminated timber (CLT), and Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF). Early alignment ensures that sustainability isn’t compromised once construction begins.

2. Durability: Building Structures That Last
Durability is sustainability. Morcon focuses on construction methods and materials that extend the life cycle of every building we deliver. Prefabrication, modular construction, and advanced building envelopes like ICFs not only enhance strength and energy efficiency but also minimize the need for future repairs and replacements. Structures built to endure reduce resource consumption over time—critical for both environmental and economic sustainability.

3. Energy Efficiency: Smarter, Greener Buildings
Energy efficiency is now the standard, not the exception. Through close collaboration with project partners, we integrate high-efficiency HVAC systems, smart features like windows and building automation systems, and advanced insulation techniques into the work we deliver. Morcon also supports the installation of renewable energy technologies, like solar panels and alternate energy solutions, helping clients achieve near-Net Zero Ready buildings.

4. Waste Reduction: A Construction Site Commitment
Construction waste is a major contributor to landfill volume. That’s why we prioritize recycling and reusing materials wherever possible and employ off-site prefabrication to minimize waste. Locally sourced materials not only reduce transportation emissions but also support regional economies. In 2025 and beyond, it is our goal to maximize material recovery, closing the resource loop to ensure fewer resources are wasted along the way.

5. Indoor Air Quality: Healthier Spaces for Communities
Creating spaces with superior indoor air quality is critical for public and municipal projects where occupant health is paramount. Morcon selects low-VOC paints, sealants, and materials that minimize toxic emissions. High-performance HVAC systems with enhanced filtration and real-time air quality monitoring help ensure safe, comfortable environments—whether it’s an airport terminal, a civic center, or a school.

6. Water Conservation: Smart Resource Management
Water scarcity is a growing global concern, and construction must be part of the solution. Morcon integrates rainwater harvesting systems, low-flow fixtures, and drought-resistant landscaping into our projects. Through collaboration with engineers and suppliers, we also optimize mechanical systems to minimize water use without compromising performance—especially important in large facilities like those at MSP International Airport, where efficiency can save millions of gallons annually.

7. Sustainable Building Materials: Conscious Choices, Superior Results
Material selection is central to sustainability. Morcon prioritizes materials that are either recycled, rapidly renewable, or responsibly harvested. This includes specifying green concrete mixes and using regionally sourced stone and timber to reduce embodied carbon. By working closely with suppliers and subcontractors, we ensure that our material choices align with each project’s sustainability objectives and broader environmental goals.

Sustainability: A Shared Responsibility
At Morcon Construction, we believe sustainability is a team effort—one that requires close collaboration with clients, design teams, suppliers, and skilled tradespeople. By focusing on the principles of sustainable construction, we help deliver projects that are durable, energy-efficient, and responsible to both people and the planet.

As we continue to shape communities and critical infrastructure throughout Minnesota and beyond, our commitment to building smarter, greener, and more resiliently remains steadfast.