Leads 2 Business Blog

17 Aug 2021

Construction Pollution

by Mareez Herselman | posted in: Construction Chat | 0

Our planet has been fighting a non-stop battle against pollution. On our average day today, we do not take note of the damage we cause to our planet. This is a very sensitive topic to most people. Typically we hate to face the reality however at some point it is inevitable to avoid.

Construction pollution involves so many aspects in this topic from Air, water, soil, and/or Noise pollution. This is caused by the materials used, such as harmful chemicals used during the construction. Fossil fuels being one of them produces greenhouse gases that harm the environment.

The most common types of pollution found on Construction sites are dust and diesel emissions. Dust pollution being a very common Construction Site pollution, It may contain Microscopic solids or liquid droplets, they are minute enough to seep into the lungs and cause health issues such as wheezing, Bronchial infections, dermatitis, Asthma attacks and more. It can also contain chemical particles that can cause Long-term Health issues.

Out of 195 Counties, South Africa is standing at 37 on the list of the most polluted, with stats standing at 21.56 Average PM2,5 (Fine particulate matter 2.5) refers to tiny particles or droplets in the air that are two and one-half microns or less in width. It is caused by Car, truck, bus and off-road vehicle exhausts and from operations that involve the burning of fossil fuels such as wood, heating oil or coal. Consideration to our communities around our construction sites plays a role in reasoning to reduce our pollution on site.

Let’s look at ways to reduce Construction Pollution

Time: Consider time management on site. Decrease the amount of time spent on site. Modular construction can decrease time and speed up the process. “Modular construction – is a process where pieces and structures are built off-site in manufacturing plants before being transported to the job site “

Vehicles: Construction sites require the use of machinery. It is a tough one. The use of economic fuel-efficient vehicles “Tier 4 equipment”. The use of this equipment reduces hydrocarbon emissions. Reducing idiling time will benefit in more ways than one. Saving on fuel expenses and reducing Air pollution.

Clean-Up: No one enjoys cleaning up after a long day’s work. So create a cleanup policy, have bins laid out across your construction site, so your workers can have a clean Working environment with no arb wrapper in the midst of your equipment.

Sources:
China Daily
World Population Review
Air Veda
Exak Time
Frame CAD
Tracey Road
Portland Maine Junk Removal
Steadfast Building

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About Mareez Herselman

10 Aug 2021

Why Planning is Key

by Michelle Ngubo | posted in: General | 0

What is Planning?

Planning means analysing and studying the objectives, as well as the way in which we will achieve them. A process of organising your goals which involves decision making about desired ways and means to achieve these goals. It provides direction for action and ensures that goals and objectives are clearly defined so that they act as a guide for deciding what actions should be taken and in which direction.

Why is planning important?

It helps us achieve our goals and allows for more efficient use of time and other resources.

Characteristics of Planning:
Goal-Oriented
Looking ahead
Intellectual process
Involves choice and decision making
The primary function of management
Pervasive
A continuous process

Recognizing the Advantages of Planning:
Gives a sense of direction
State / Focuses attention on objectives and results
Establish a basis for teamwork
Help anticipate problems and cope with change
Provide guidelines for decision making
Serves as a prerequisite to employing all other management functions.

Planning Made Easy

1) Idea:
Its starts with having an idea. Having an idea is important, without ideas progress is not possible, change does not happen…Therefore, the more ideas you have, the more you should expect to grow.

2) Analyse:
This involves collecting and analysing the information you will need to decide on a goal and purpose that is:
Relevant to your target community
Realistic in terms of what is possible and likely to make a difference; and
The most effective and appropriate contribution given the current situation you want to change.

3) Forecast:
This is a technique that uses collected data and inputs to make informed estimates that are predictive in determining the direction
of future trends. Forecasting can be used to determine how to allocate budgets or plan for anticipates expenses for an upcoming Civil Works for the Upgrading of the Kabale – Lake Bunyonyi and Kisoro – Mgahinga (33.5km) period of time.

4) Develop – Practical Implementation of plan / idea:
These are the strategic measurable criteria that are used to evaluate objectives. By using the below method:
Develop objectives
Develop tasks to meet the objectives
Determine resources needed to implement tasks
Create timeline
Determine tracking and assessment method
Finalise plan
Distribute to all involved in the process

5) Implement:
This step involves detailed planning about how to / or how you will implement the strategies you have decided on. You will mostly use decisions about the most effective strategy to achieve each objective to decide:
What major activities will take place or will be needed
Who will be responsible
By When should activities be completed
What should be set and what specific resources will be needed for the activities required to achieve each strategy

6) Evaluate:
This step involves planning how you will determine your progress and what has been successfully achieved. This needs to be done at the. It also ensures that you have a clear and agreed basis for assessing what was actually achieved and your progress along the way. In this step you will use your needs analysis and overall plan to finally decide:

What criteria or indicators you will use to progress and achievements in relation to your purpose and specific objectives
When you will monitor progress and evaluate achievements
Where and from you will get the information you need
Who should be involved in monitoring progress and evaluating achievements; and
How you will collect the information you will need.

Once you have made these decisions, you will have completed the planning processing. Now all that is needed is to summarise your plan in a neat, clear and easy to use form so that it is a useful record and guide for all those who will play a part in implementing it successfully.

About Michelle Ngubo

I have been working at L2B since March 2014 and my current position is Tenders Africa Deputy HOD and Classy is the best word that describes me.

3 Aug 2021

Sustainable Lifestyle Tips

by Chantélle Naudé | posted in: General | 1

sustainable
/səˈsteɪnəb(ə)l/
adjective: sustainable

1.
able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
“sustainable economic growth”
conserving an ecological balance by avoiding depletion of natural resources.
“our fundamental commitment to sustainable development”

2.
able to be upheld or defended.
“sustainable definitions of good educational practice”

Sustainability is a buzzword nowadays.

Reduce-Reuse-Recycle mantra, may feel retro, but it’s just as important today as when the phrase was first coined.

It might be a trend, but it’s not one that will go out of fashion.

Living sustainably means adapting our lives so that we avoid further depletion of the earth’s natural resources. From conserving water and improving air quality, to taking care of the natural world so that forests can soak up carbon dioxide and wildlife can thrive, there is so much we can help with.

Everything you do in your day-to-day life has an impact on the planet, from the food you eat to the car you drive. This doesn’t mean you should only eat vegetables and start riding a bike everywhere. Although, you could try consuming less meat and only driving when necessary.

It’s small changes like these which could help you to lessen your environmental impact.

Here are a few sustainable lifestyle tips:

Save energy. By using less energy, you can help to reduce carbon emissions
Eat less meat
Use reusable alternatives
Go paperless
Use renewable energy
Recycle and reuse
Plant seeds
Grow your own produce
Donate unused items

Living a more sustainable life means leaving a few conveniences behind, but it’s so worth it in the long run. Eventually, you’ll adjust to the new way of life and be able to sleep better at night, knowing you’re making a positive change for the planet you call home.

Source: The Common Wanderer

About Chantélle Naudé

I have been with Leads 2 Business since 2009, from Leads 2 Quotes to Directory. Mom to 3 girls. Outspoken, Fastidious and lover of all things Spicy and Shiny.

29 Jul 2021

L2B Opportunities created in the last 30 Days – July 2021

by Sasha Anderson | posted in: General | 0

Our comprehensive, online, resource platform delivers daily leads to help you make informed business decisions. Find construction Tenders and Projects within the building, infrastructure, mining, and industrial sectors. Opportunities are researched throughout South Africa and Africa. We put new business prospect leads within your reach.

Leads 2 Business Opportunities we have created in the last 30 Days: for more information check out our Pricing Page.

About Sasha Anderson

Millennial Mom + wife living the hash-tag life. Reach out if you want to talk: L2B, social media, construction, technology, marriage, parenting, popular culture and travel. Remember: If You Fail - Fail Forward

27 Jul 2021

Building Innovations to Look Out for

by Lucinda du Toit | posted in: General | 2

The world is constantly evolving and improving especially with regards to technology. Everyone is looking for new and easier ways to build their businesses. Here are some Construction Building Innovation Ideas listed that is taking place and to look out for in the future.

HD Surveying and Geolocation

Projects can get delayed because of ground conditions, looking for better ways to improve this with new techniques that incorporate high-definition photography. 3-D laser scanning, and geographic information systems. This can improve accuracy and makes the process faster saving time on projects.

5-D Building Information Modeling (BIM)

What is BIM? BIM is a digital representation of the characteristics, including physical and functional aspects of a project. This is a 5D designed model created to give a detailed example on how the finished project will be looking like as an end result.

Digital Collaboration and Mobility

Everything is being digitized so as to communicate and collaborate with each other in the building and construction industry with regard to the latest projects. Creating mobility to have a connected network saves you time and avoids errors, making communication easier and more understandable.

IoT and Advanced Analytics

In the construction industry, the IoT can allow construction machinery, equipment, materials, structures, and more to talk to a central data platform. Sensors can be used to monitor productivity and reliability in your business.

Robotics

Robots will become the future in construction whether it will be laying bricks or tying rebar. Robots are more accurate and can lift heavier objects. Various types of robots, such as collaborative industrial robots and logistics robots impacting the construction industry hugely.

Cloud and Mobile Technology

In 2021, you can expect developers, engineers, and contractors to easily integrate and manage their existing processes through a single, always-connected cloud-based platform. Projects running in real-time with accurate data and digitalization, eliminating various manual tasks, saving time, providing greater cost flexibility, and improving profitability and productivity.

Drones

How can a Drone impact the Construction industry? Surveyors can survey a site in minutes, which normally can take weeks or even months. This is saving time and money, and accuracy and precision. This is what will help construction in the future to better in general.

These are some of the Newest Building innovations to be on the lookout for.
How has this new way of building affected your company?

Sources:
Imaginovation
BSI Group
ABB
National

About Lucinda du Toit

I started working for Leads 2 Business in March 2021, I'm an Account Co-ordinator. I am a huge animal lover and enjoy spending time with my family, like good food, music, art and travelling.

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13 Jul 2021

Benefits of Cycling. More specifically, Urban Commuting

by Pauline Rainbird | posted in: General | 4

I cannot think of a better way to start the day and ride my bike to work. It gives me something to look forward to, and when I get to work I feel invigorated and ready to start my day.

If more people commuted on bicycles there would be:

Less fuel consumption, saving you money as an individual and saving the earth

Less noise pollution

Less traffic congestion, saving everyone time and reducing stress

Less damage to roads as bicycles are lighter, leading to fewer repairs and maintenance to roads

Less damage to the environment as there is no carbon footprint

Less roadkill and save animals

Fewer health issues, as the benefits of cycling, include:
– Building a Strong Immune System
– Increasing Cardiovascular Fitness
– Improving Flexibility and Joint Mobility
– Boosting Mental Health
– Promoting Weight Loss

Cycling is easy to fit into your daily routine by riding to the shops, friends, school or work and it does not feel like you are doing exercise, you are just having fun by riding your bike.

Cape Town has already successfully implemented cycling lanes into its town planning and is already seeing the benefits as more people are commuting to work and feel safe in doing so.

Low-income workers have also saved on transport costs through cycling to work instead of taking a taxi. Cycling is also more social distanced than travelling in a crowded taxi, making it a safer option in Covid times.

I wish more towns in South Africa would build cycle lanes as it would enable a lot more people to commute via their loved bicycles.

Sources:
India
Better Health
Open Streets

About Pauline Rainbird

I have been working at L2B since March 2011 and my current position is Deputy Head of Department - Africa. When I am not working I am either riding my bicycle or spending time with my dogs.

6 Jul 2021

Buildings that took the Longest to Build

by Nadine Vermeulen | posted in: General | 0

Each and every building and structure can be anything from spectacular creations with stunning sculptures on the outside and gorgeous murals on the inside to geometrical marvels with much accuracy and design, to eye-catching architecture that is a standing work of art and one can just stare and behold their magnificence. There are many such buildings and structures around the world; however, some of these buildings are as follows:

The Taj Mahal:

The construction of this spectacular palace began in 1632 and took 21 years to construct. The Mughal emperor, Shan Jahan, had the palace built-in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died that year while giving birth to their 14^th child. The interior and exterior are absolutely marvelous and are among the finest in Mughal architecture.

Angkor Wat:

The temple of Angkor Wat is made up of many buildings constructed in one place, which is interconnected by gardens and paths. Angkor Wat means “City of Temples” and is thought to have been constructed between AD 802 and AD 1220 with 300 000 laborers and 6000 elephants, it is also said that five million tons of sandstone were used.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa:

The tower was built as a freestanding bell tower for the cathedral situated nearby and is one of the famous monuments of today. The tower was meant to be straight; however 5 years into the construction when builders reached the 3^rd floor, the foundation began to sink on the one side, which caused the tower to lean. The tower is hollow inside with a spiral staircase, which consists of 257 steps. The construction started in 1173 and took 200 years in total to complete as construction halted for a period of 100 years.

The Great Wall of China:

The Great Wall of China is one of the structures that is the most recognizable in the world and also one that took the longest to build. There are several Great Walls that were built and altogether the wall took over 2000 years to complete. All the walls were built by the different dynasties and kingdoms of China over a period of 22 centuries.

The Sagrada Familia:

The construction of this beautiful masterpiece began over 150 years ago and believe it or not, is still under construction. Construction started in 1882 and by 1926 the church was only 25% completed when architect Antoni Gaudi passed away. Over the years since then, 9 architects have taken on the project, however ended up walking away due to the many obstacles of this project. Architect, Jordi Fauli, has taken on the challenge of completing this iconic building. It was anticipated that the construction would be completed by 2026, however, this has now been delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“It is not the beauty of the building you should look at: it’s the construction of the foundation that will stand the test of time.” – David Allen Coe

“You can dream, create, design, and build the most wonderful place in the world. But it requires people to make the dream a reality.” – Walt Disney

“We shape our buildings; thereafter, they shape us.” – Winston Churchill

Sources:
Leaning Tower Pisa
Great Performers Academy
China Highlights
Wikipedia
BDC Network
Construction Blog

About Nadine Vermeulen

I started working at Leads 2 Business in October 2014 in the Leads 2 Quotes Department. I managed all the Daily Tender Bill Requests and followed up on BoQ's for our Daily Tender Subscribers. In 2017, I was promoted to L2Q Assistant and now work with Bill of Quantities for Contractors. 🙂

16 Jun 2021

The Cost of Free

by Sasha Anderson | posted in: Construction Chat | 2

When you think of the eTenders portal, the adage “No such thing as a free lunch” comes to mind. To be fair though, when has a government-driven solution ever been successful?

There is one “positive” though: The eTenders Portal is free? This might lead you to consider it a viable alternative to Leads 2 Business?

The reality is that almost nothing is truly free. Consider the long-term effect this will have on your business:

Spending time on multiple sources looking for the relevant, updated information?
Catering for your specific requirements?
Quality and quantity of information?
Assistance and support?

The question is, can you really afford to miss another opportunity? Keep your order book healthy and your pipeline filled with validated opportunities. Think long-term.

Ps. Did you know Leads 2 Business also offers a free publication of tenders by simply emailing Tenders@L2B.co.za?

Read more: What’s gone wrong with Government’s tender website? from GroundUp.

About Sasha Anderson

15 Jun 2021

7 benefits of Urban Farming

by Melanie Miles | posted in: General | 0

First off, what is Urban Farming?

Urban farming is growing or producing food in a city or heavily populated town or municipality.

Urban farming is often confused with community gardening, homesteading, or subsistence farming. Urban farming, however, focuses more on growing produce to be sold as opposed to being grown for personal consumption or sharing. Urban farming can support the well-being of individuals and communities in many ways. From providing fresh produce to communities, creating a sense of community belonging, job-creation, and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Did you know that over 20% of the food in the world is produced by urban farms?

There are various different types of urban farming like hydroponic farming, mushroom farming, beekeeping, urban chicken farms, growing flowers, cannabis farming, and organic farming to name a few.

So what are some of the benefits of urban farming?

1. You will learn the ability to farm

Urban farming helps you get educated about growing food. It is a unique skill to have in today’s world. You will also be able to educate your children about sustainable food and the health benefits.

2. Growing food in limited space

You do not need a lot of space to grow your own produce. There are techniques like vertical gardening, container gardening, rooftop gardening, and hydroponic gardening that utilize space well.
Urban farming helps you make the best use of space while growing all the produce that you want.
3. Help boost the local economy

As more grocers, restaurants, schools, and institutions seek out sources of local food, there is an opportunity for small businesses and food entrepreneurs to explore urban farming as a new market in which to start or expand their business. This in turn creates more employment opportunities for local residents. As the local economic activity rises, money circulates within the city and strengthens communities.

4. Create edible landscapes

Urban farming is a perfect solution for vacant and underutilized lots of land that are scattered throughout cities, and many projects make efficient use of rooftop space. Community gardens and raised beds instantly transform spaces into more vibrant and edible landscapes and give individuals an opportunity to take stewardship of common land and become more involved in their communities.

5. Promote healthy communities

Urban farming increases access to affordable, healthy, fresh produce and provides a unique opportunity for communities to learn about nutrition and how to grow food.

6. Reduce environmental impact

Localized food production can be one effective way to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture. Food grown locally travels significantly less distance from the farm to your fork, thus eliminating unnecessary food travel time. Urban farmers also often adopt more environmentally-friendly growing practices, using fewer pesticides and chemical fertilizers.

7. Increase food security

Urban farming can help alleviate some of the pressures of food insecurity by making a source of nutritious food available for nearby urban residents. All these reasons and more should compel us to scale up food production in towns in cities.

“Agriculture is our wisest pursuit because it will, in the end, contribute most to real wealth, good morals, and happiness.” — Thomas Jefferson

About Melanie Miles

One girl who would rather wear boots than high heels...

8 Jun 2021

How the Global Pandemic changed Business

by Charlene Nell | posted in: General | 0

On the evening of 23rd March 2020, every South African was planted in front of their TV to listen to the most important Family meeting ever recorded in history. That was the day we knew our lives would change for the good part of forever.

The coronavirus pandemic has reached almost every country in the world. Its spread has left national economies and businesses counting the costs, as governments struggle with new lock-down measures to tackle the spread of the virus. Despite the development of new vaccines, many are still wondering what recovery could look like.

The impact of the pandemic on small businesses has been nothing but devastating. But as always, Give the people a challenge and they will form a solution.

When we walk into any shop now, we are faced with the reality of sanitizing, shields between us and the person on the other side, markings on the floor to ensure social distancing. A mini-panic attack arises when you see a person without a mask, when someone comes too close to you or when the lady at the till touches your bank card.

Companies were forced to start thinking about the pandemic. The way of doing business has changed. A new normal if you will. All of a sudden wifi installations around the country skyrocketed. Every household needed super-fast internet to adhere to the new way of working remotely. Companies gave up office space as it was no longer needed.

As companies were downsizing or shutting their doors, grocery delivery services experienced a different reality, It grew at a pace no one could ever predict.

The new position everyone wanted to add to their resumes was being an Entrepreneur. People started thinking of innovative ways on how to make a living. From knitting and selling scarfs to baking classes online. Live Safari drives in the Kruger. The new gym launched in your lounge daily. We saw music concerts happening online. Classes on how to sanitize properly. If the way we work changed surely the way we have fun has to change.

The pandemic has forced us to slow down, to actually see today, to be grateful for what we have. We have formed relationships with family living far away. We enjoyed the company of a stranger in a grocery store waiting in line to pay. The pandemic has forced us to grow emotionally and spiritually.

But as our nation looks to recover from the scourge of COVID-19, are we capitalizing on the strength of digital businesses?

President Cyril Ramaphosa recently announced an economic recovery plan with bold promises. He said his government would create 800 000 job opportunities in the coming years. The plan covered many sectors including forestry, energy, construction, and farming.

How has the Global Pandemic changed your Business? Comment below

Sources
SME South Africa
EWN
BBC
Google

About Charlene Nell

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