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An Investigation of Innovative Materials and Technologies for Sustainable Construction in Nigeria Unegbu, H C O; Yawas, Danjuma Saleh; Dan-asabe, Bashar; Alabi, A.A.
Civil and Environmental Science Journal (CIVENSE) Vol. 7 No. 2 (2024)
Publisher : Fakultas Teknik Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.civense.2024.007.02.8

Abstract

This study explores the adoption and effects of innovative materials and advanced technologies on sustainable construction practices in Nigeria. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to collect comprehensive data from 255 construction professionals, achieving an 85% response rate. The findings indicate that recycled materials and green concrete are the most frequently utilized innovative materials, primarily due to their environmental advantages and cost-effectiveness. Building Information Modeling (BIM) and prefabrication emerge as the most widely adopted advanced technologies, enhancing efficiency, reducing waste, and improving project quality. Additionally, regression analysis reveals the complex nature of adopting sustainable construction practices, with cost emerging as a significant barrier for many firms. Despite these positive developments, challenges such as high initial costs, lack of awareness, insufficient regulatory support, and limited availability of sustainable materials impede wider adoption. The study highlights the necessity for targeted interventions, including financial incentives, stronger regulatory frameworks, and comprehensive education and training programs, to foster sustainable construction practices. The findings have substantial implications for policymakers, industry professionals, and researchers, offering a foundation for future research and practical strategies to advance sustainability in Nigeria's construction sector.
Life Cycle Assessment of Sustainable Building Materials in the Nigerian Construction Industry Unegbu, H C O; Yawas, Danjuma Saleh
Civil and Environmental Science Journal (CIVENSE) Vol. 8 No. 1 (2025)
Publisher : Fakultas Teknik Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.civense.2024.008.01.3

Abstract

This study presented a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) of sustainable building materials within the Nigerian construction industry, focusing on bamboo, recycled steel, and low-carbon concrete. The research aimed to evaluate the environmental impacts of these materials across all stages of their life cycles, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal. A mixed-methods approach was employed, with primary data gathered through interviews and surveys with industry professionals, while secondary data was obtained from reputable databases and literature. The results indicated that bamboo was the most environmentally friendly material, exhibiting the lowest global warming potential, ozone depletion, eutrophication, and resource depletion impacts. Low-carbon concrete also demonstrated significant environmental benefits, particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional concrete. Recycled steel, while advantageous in promoting the circular economy, incurred higher energy consumption and emissions due to the energy-intensive recycling process. The study identified several barriers to the widespread adoption of sustainable materials in Nigeria, including high initial costs, limited availability, and a lack of regulatory support. To address these challenges, the research suggested strengthening regulatory frameworks, providing financial incentives, enhancing local production capabilities, and increasing awareness through education and training programs. The findings underscored the potential of sustainable materials to reduce the environmental footprint of construction activities in Nigeria, highlighting the need for coordinated efforts to promote their adoption. This study contributed valuable insights to policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers focused on advancing sustainability in the built environment.
Sustainable Construction Project Management: Developing a Framework for Assessing Sustainability Performance in Nigerian Mega Projects Unegbu, H C O; Yawas, Danjuma Saleh; Dan-asabe, Bashar; Alabi, A.A.
Civil and Environmental Science Journal (CIVENSE) Vol. 8 No. 2 (2025)
Publisher : Fakultas Teknik Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.civense.2025.008.02.1

Abstract

This study develops a tailored sustainability assessment framework for Nigerian mega projects. The framework is applied to four diverse case studies: a highway expansion, an airport terminal, a renewable energy project, and a residential housing development. Results show that the renewable energy project achieved the highest sustainability score due to its superior environmental and economic performance. In contrast, the highway expansion project ranked the lowest, primarily because of its significant environmental impact and limited community engagement. Key findings emphasize the critical role of community engagement and lifecycle costing in achieving sustainable outcomes. Projects that incorporated inclusive planning and long-term financial strategies performed better overall. However, the study also identifies significant barriers, including weak regulatory enforcement and monetary limitations, which restrict the adoption of sustainable construction practices. The research highlights the need for localized sustainability frameworks in developing countries, as international models like LEED and BREEAM may not fully address context-specific challenges. This framework provides a valuable tool for policymakers, project managers, and stakeholders to enhance sustainability in large-scale infrastructure projects and support long-term development objectives.