Perception of the benefits of sustainable construction in Ghana

Abstract

PurposeThe need to adopt sustainable construction (SC) practices in project activities will be appreciated when clear benefits are known to the stakeholders in Ghana. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the perceived benefits of using SC practices in building projects.Design/methodology/approachA modified Delphi method (MDM) was used to solicit the views of an expert panel on 33 benefits identified from the literature and validated by a pilot panel to ensure robustness. Statistical tools were used to analyse the data collected. The comparative analysis among the expert panel lends credence to the strong consensus reached on the 26 benefits of SC. The consensus reached by the expert panel after the three rounds were validated using the median and important scale of 70% response rate and above.FindingsThe essential benefits included the ability to enhance efficiency and improve the overall quality of life for all. Factors such as mandatory government policies and regulations are recommended as essential drivers to promote and sustain the implementation of SC in Ghana. The findings will enhance the drive for sustainability practices in construction projects in Ghana.Originality/valueThe study contributes to the body of knowledge regarding the benefits of SC from the perspective of experts in the Ghanaian construction industry. The paper would enhance stakeholders understanding the critical benefits of promoting and adopting SC practices in building projects.