Sustainability Best Practices in Small Construction Companies: Analysis Construction Companies from Ceará, Brazil

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to aimed to analyze sustainability practices in Micro and Small Companies from the construction sector. Method: A qualitative study was conducted with three Micro and Small Construction Companies. The study involved analyzing content from in-depth interviews and field observations. The observations were conducted using a checklist developed to evaluate sustainable practices and applied to construction sites, complementing the evidence from interviews. Results and conclusion: As results, the managers' perception of the meaning of sustainability and good practices, their benefits, barriers, and feasibility of adoption in the MSC context were highlighted. With the developed tool, it was possible to identify sustainable best practices on construction sites and evaluate their impact in terms of economic, environmental, and social dimensions. Evidence showed that companies are committed to implementing sustainable practices, and there was an underestimation of the practices carried out by managers, indicating a cognitive barrier regarding the topic. Originality/value: This research introduces innovation by conducting an analysis of the adoption of water reuse in buildings based on the multi-level perspective of socio-technical transitions towards sustainability. It focuses on a state in the Brazilian Northeast, whose territory is primarily situated in the Caatinga biome, characterized by a semi-arid climate and a history of severe drought cycles. Research implications: The developed checklist is a practical and easy-to-use tool for identifying and assessing sustainable best practices, aiding in the awareness, management, and improvement of sustainable performance in Micro and Small Companies within the construction sector.