Sustainability in project management: A comprehensive review

Abstract

This comprehensive review paper delves into the integration of sustainability principles within the realm of project management. The primary objective is to analyze how sustainability is being incorporated into project management practices and to identify the emerging trends and challenges in this integration. The methodology involves a systematic review of existing literature, encompassing academic journals, industry reports, and case studies, to provide a holistic view of the current state of sustainability in project management. Key findings reveal that sustainability in project management is increasingly gaining attention, driven by the growing recognition of environmental, social, and economic impacts. The study identifies three core dimensions of sustainability in project management: environmental responsibility, social equity, and economic viability. It highlights the evolving role of project managers in embedding these dimensions into project life cycles, from initiation to closure. The review also uncovers a range of tools and frameworks being employed to facilitate sustainable project management, such as life cycle assessment, stakeholder engagement strategies, and sustainability balanced scorecards. However, challenges persist, including a lack of standardized guidelines, difficulties in measuring sustainability outcomes, and resistance to change in traditional project management practices. The paper concludes that while strides have been made in integrating sustainability into project management, there is a need for more robust frameworks and educational efforts to enhance the adoption and effectiveness of sustainable practices. Future research directions are suggested, focusing on the development of standardized sustainability metrics and the exploration of the role of technology in enhancing sustainable project management practices.