Sustainable Construction Understanding among Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) Professionals in Abuja

Abstract

Globally, there is a growing desire to deliver sustainable infrastructure projects. However, the implementation of sustainable construction in Nigeria is still in its early stages. It is believed that the successful adoption of sustainable construction in Nigeria depends, in part, on the understanding of sustainable construction among professionals in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. This study argues that the extent to which AEC professionals demonstrate a clear understanding of sustainable construction reflects their knowledge and provides a starting point for effective implementation in the future. By focusing on the current efforts of the Nigerian AEC industry to embrace sustainability, this study aims to identify key factors that exemplify the understanding of sustainable construction among professionals. A survey was conducted among 290 registered construction professionals in Abuja. The data was analysed using factor analysis and partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) approach. The result from the analysis shows seven factors: awareness, political factors, passive culture, knowledge, demand, financial, and attitude. These factors characterise sustainable construction practices understanding among AEC professionals in Abuja. This serves as a foundation for future implementation of sustainable construction practices in Nigeria in line with the views of many sustainable construction researchers.