Understanding green and sustainable construction in Lagos, Nigeria: Principles, attributes and framework

Abstract

The research examined the concepts, principles and attributes in understanding sustainable and green construction as well as current practices and challenges in Lagos, Nigeria using both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection. The sample frame is the total number of built industries 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 professional groups to corroborate the primary information. For a wider coverage, three different construction sites were 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 based on environmental assessment and 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 laws 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.

Key Words: Sustainable construction, Green construction, Construction industry, Framework