Abstract

The concept of sustainable development is used as a basis for enhancing understanding of sustainable construction. Principles of sustainable construction cover four attributes: social, economic, biophysical and technical. The research examined these concepts, principles and attributes in understanding sustainable and green construction as well as current practices and challenges of sustainable construction in Lagos, Nigeria. The research embraced both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection. The sample frame is the total number of built industry registered and practising professionals in Lagos. A total number of 85 respondents were randomly selected for study from each group. A 5-point likert scale was used to assess respondents’ judgement on the identified social, economic, bio-physical and technical indicators. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were also conducted with all the above professional groups to corroborate the primary information. For a wider coverage, three different construction sites are selected to reflect income neighbourhoods-Lekki (high income), Yaba (medium income) and Bariga (low income). Data Collected were analysed using the mean item score. A multi- stage framework which required the application of environmental assessment and environment management systems for construction projects was utilised. Research findings indicate that the most important factors considered for sustainable construction with their mean item scores are quality of working conditions (0.852) strengthening and enforcement of relevant law and regulations(0.872), encouraging construction waste management(0.819) and design for flexibility and adaptability. Results from the FGDs indicate that the current practice on sustainable construction does not take into consideration integrated design process, acoustic and visual comfort in the planning and construction of sustainable projects. The research therefore concludes that government should improve existing laws to enhance quality of working life, education, training as well as knowledge management for all stakeholders in sustainable construction.

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