Drivers of Sustainable Construction Practices in the Zambian Construction Industry

Abstract

While the construction industry plays a crucial role in the social and economic growth of a country; on the other hand, it is known to be a major contributor to the degradation of the environment. This has led to the quest for a sustainable environment achieved through sustainable construction (SC) in countries around the world. This paper presents the results of the assessment of SC in Zambian Construction Industry (ZCI). A quantitative approach was adopted for the study and a questionnaire survey was conducted on the construction professionals. Analysis of the data gathered was done using appropriate descriptive methods. The study indicated that there is an average level of awareness of SC practices among construction professionals; however the level of implementation of these practices is low. The major drivers towards the adoption of SC practices include; legislation or legal requirement, building regulations, advocacy and awareness, developing regulatory mechanisms, and clients demand. The adoption of the various sustainable construction practices offers a solution to the many challenges within the ZCI. Thus, adopting the use of the various identified practices will not only aid to the greening of the country, but result in the preservation of resources and improve quality of life.