Method: Pier Foundations

There are many advantages to building on a pier foundation system vs. a continuous poured concrete foundation with a slab on grade. There are also considerations to explore with this widely used construction method. Pier foundations are commonly utilized in flood prone areas, however they can be used anywhere.

Ideal for retrofitting. If your home requires a foundation system, pier foundations are the most efficient to install on a site with an existing building as they do not require a great deal of concrete and the digging required can be done utilizing smaller equipment.
Limits soil disruption. Soil disruption is hugely detrimental to ecology and is linked to release of carbon into the atmosphere. “Soils represent a significant reservoir of biological diversity that underpins a broad range of key processes and moderate ecosystem service provision. Our understanding of the role that soil organisms play in ecosystems is still developing, but the increased investigation into biodiversity-ecosystem functioning relationships in soils over the past couple of decades has provided insights that have greatly enhanced our ability to sustainably manage soil biodiversity.” - Soil Biodiversity and the Environment
- Sources:
Vastly reduces concrete use. Silica in concrete is environmentally harmful. The impact to soil caused by slab on grade and soil disturbance is also linked to traditional poured concrete foundation systems.
- Sources:
  - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_concrete#:~:text=The%20environmental%20impact%20of%20concrete,manufacture%20and%20applications%2C%20are%20complex.&text=Concrete%20causes%20damage%20to%20the,erosion%2C%20water%20pollution%20and%20flooding.

Opportunities for storage / car ports.
Enhanced utility access.
Creates more opportunities for ventilation.
Provides opportunities for LED gardens.
As with any structural system, local building codes will need to be applied and approved by a licensed professional.