Sustainable Projects Research Articles

Enhancing Project Performance Through Quality (Toyyib) Dimensions: An Empirical Study in Jordan's Construction Industry

This study investigates the impact of key project quality (Toyyib) dimensions—Feasibility, Conformity, Durability, and Serviceability on project performance within Jordan's construction industry. Drawing from existing literature, the study highlights the critical link between quality management practices and enhanced project outcomes. Utilizing a quantitative research methodology and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), data collected from 204 managers within Jordan’s construction firms reveal a significant positive relationship between effective quality management and improved project performance. The findings underscore the importance of comprehensive quality audits and robust quality control mechanisms in minimizing delays, reducing costs, and achieving project objectives. This research contributes to both theoretical perspectives and practical applications in construction management, advocating for the integration of systematic quality dimensions to drive competitive advantage and sustainable project success.

Climate-Driven Sustainable Energy Investments: Key Decision Factors for a Low-Carbon Transition Using a Multi-Criteria Approach

Currently, the need for a clean transition has made the upscaling of sustainable energy investment projects imperative. This paper addresses the increasing importance of sustainable energy investment projects in the context of climate change and the urgent need for a global energy transition. Given the complexity of decision-making in this field, a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach is employed to assess the main criteria considered by project developers and financial institutions. Using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method, eight criteria are identified and evaluated. Results highlight differing priorities between project developers and investors, emphasizing the need for adaptable approaches to accelerate sustainable energy investments. The study underscores the importance of understanding diverse stakeholder preferences and priorities in formulating effective strategies and managing associated risks to effectively promote sustainable energy projects. Future research should focus on real-life case studies and policy assessments to further enhance the understanding of sustainable energy investment dynamics.

Climate Finance: Pioneering Pathways to Sustainability

Climate finance is a progressive financial tool to foster sustainability and address climate change mitigation and adaptation challenges. This study delineates the notion of climate finance and sustainability, illustrating their confluence and its impact on social welfare, ecological quality, and economic well-being. Climate financing involves distributing resources to environmentally sustainable enterprises and projects designed to harmonize economic growth with sustainability. Furthermore, developed nations have committed to offering financial assistance to developing nations to confront the problems presented by climate change. This paper aims to decode the confluence of climate finance and sustainability. Moreover, it underscores the significance of climate financing in tackling environmental issues, reaching carbon neutrality, and eventually realizing sustainable development. The finding indicates that climate finance is essential for addressing climate change and achieving sustainability, highlighting the significant role of developed nations and the private sector in closing the funding gap required for investments in climate-resilient projects and infrastructure. Consequently, this can generate possibilities for people and nations to earn carbon credits, which are tradable in carbon markets, thereby securing financial benefits.

Consumers would rather buy a product with a levy for enhancing animal welfare than for environmental sustainability

Taxes have been identified as efficient measures to facilitate sustainable behaviour change but tend to be unpopular. Sustainability levies, which are a special type of tax, are less investigated and could come with fewer prejudices. To test consumers' preferences for different sustainability levy options, we conducted an online survey in Switzerland with 481 participants (51 % female). They were presented with six products (i.e. fresh/processed vegetables, dairy, and meat) and for each product, they had four levy options to choose from. For vegetables, they were: (A) reduction of risks related to plant protection products, (B) more support for local farmers, (C) support for environmental sustainability, and (D) sustainability projects in general. For the animal products, option A was an increase in animal welfare. For all three comparisons (fresh vs. processed of vegetables, meat and dairy), the number of participants who chose the general sustainability information increased for processed products compared to fresh products. Further, we found that for the animal products, the majority of participants preferred the levy that increased animal welfare. For vegetables, participants preferred a levy that reduced risks related to plant protection products and supported local farmers. We found that when the sustainability levy was not defined, it tended to be understood as environmental sustainability. Using multinomial logistic regression, we identified the perception of farmers as a significant predictor of a levy choice to support local farmers. We conclude that animal products should ensure and transparently communicate animal welfare to drive sustainable behaviour change. Similarly, improving the public perceptions of farmers and encouraging interaction between farmers and consumers can help build public support for local farmers and promote the purchase of sustainable products.

The Scholarly Upside to MOC4

BackgroundMany medical boards require quality improvement (QI) projects for Maintenance of Certification-Part IV (MOC4) credits. The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) allows healthcare organizations that can demonstrate sufficient QI standards to become Portfolio Sponsor Programs. This enables internal review and approval of QI projects, crediting all sufficiently contributing physicians. The University of Minnesota's MHealth MOC4 Review Board (MMRB) was approved as an ABMS Portfolio Sponsor Program; its impact was surveyed from inception in 2016 to 2022. Our objective was to examine the impact of a Portfolio Sponsor Program on scholarship, sustainability, and spread of QI projects. MethodsWe developed and validated an eight-question survey directed at MOC4 principal investigators (PIs) who were awarded credits through MMRB from 2016 to 2022. Participants reported on numbers of peer-reviewed publication or presentation, and their perception of increased preparedness for scholarship due to the application process. They also reported on sustainment or spread following their original QI project. ConclusionsFifty projects were reviewed over a seven-year span. Of these, 44 were approved as demonstrating sufficient QI rigor per ABMS standards. Of 41 PIs, 27 (66%) responded to the survey; 15 (56%) agreed that the MMRB process helped prepare them for scholarly dissemination, 19 (70%) delivered oral or poster presentations, and 10 (37%) submitted a total of 14 manuscripts for publication, 10 of which were accepted. A total of 23 QI projects (85%) were sustained, and 10 (37%) had spread. Besides generating essential MOC4 credits for participating physicians, an MMRB process can help PIs prepare for scholarship, project sustainment, and spread.

Catálogo de directrices de sostenibilidad para soportar el desarrollo y operación de software sostenible desde la ingeniería de requisitos

Sustainability constitutes one of the major challenges of today's society, in particular the sustainability of ICTs and more specifically of software. Requirements engineers need guidelines to successfully address sustainability in software projects. With this goal in mind, the CRETS4DevOps method has been designed to manage requirements in DevOps environments while promoting sustainability, especially technical sustainability. CRETS4DevOps encompasses a catalog of sustainability requirements, which helps in the reuse of expert knowledge in order to address the management of software quality attributes that result in sustainability, namely: modularity, scalability, flexibility, reusability, maintainability, reliability, security, interoperability and efficiency. This catalog is intended to assist practitioners both in software development and operation as well as in a sustainability audit. A tool to support CRETS4DevOps is currently being developed as a plug in for Microsoft Azure DevOps.

The emergence of green finance a conceptual framework for environmental sustainability: innovation viewpoint

Background of the study This study intends to contribute to the continuing discussion about green economic growth by objectively investigating the consequences of clean energy generation, cutting-edge green practices, and ethical business on global sustainability. This study also examines how green finance laws effectively handle the financial limitations that companies face when pursuing green innovation. Green finance enables the development and implementation of sustainable business models, investments, trade, economic, environmental, and social projects through the effective utilization of financial resources. Methods This article offers a complete evaluation of the current state and advancements in green finance research using a mixed-methods approach, which includes bibliometric and qualitative analysis. We analysed a big dataset of research papers after entering the keywords into the Scopus database. Results This study found that green bank products include green securities, investments, climate financing, carbon finance, insurance, credit, and infrastructure bonds. Sustainability, sustainable development, investments, environmental economics, sustainable finance, green bonds, and the green economy dominate as a most prevalent theme. China has the strongest bibliometric linkages to other nations, followed by the US and UK. This study also examines whether green finance policies address firm financial restrictions while pursuing green innovation. VOS-viewer generates co-authorship-based keyword occurrence links and network maps. Conclusion Green finance strives to increase funding flows to sustainable development goals while mitigating environmental and social hazards. “Going green,” pricing, forecasting, modelling, picking the most efficient tool, and influencing investor behaviour toward environmentally friendly operations are all challenges. Environmental policies, interest rates, religion, risks, social inclusion, and banking laws all have an impact on bank green financing initiatives. The study’s main contribution is an overview of green finance breakthroughs for sustainability, which may help scholars and practitioners understand the trend and future research directions.

Sustainable Project Management in the Automotive Industry

Sustainable Project Management in the Automotive Industry

A Retrospective Analysis of Jordan's National COVID-19 Call Center: Operations, Effectiveness, and Lessons Learned.

Contact tracing has been a cornerstone of non-pharmaceutical interventions to control the COVID-19 epidemic, with highly mixed effectiveness internationally. In Jordan, the Ministry of Health (MOH) collaborated with the Jordan Nurses and Midwives Council and the USAID Local Health System Sustainability Project to set up a call center for contact tracing of COVID-19. This study described the operation and assessed the effectiveness of Jordan's COVID-19 call center activities in reaching COVID-19 cases and their contacts. A retrospective observational design was conducted using data from all calls made by the COVID-19 call center cases between November 2020 and April 2022. Data were collected from initial and follow-up calls to PCR-confirmed COVID-19 cases and their contacts. Data on socio-demographics, symptoms, and contact tracing activities were recorded. The study focused on key outcomes, including call success rates, the number of cases and contacts reached, and the role of different detection modes in identifying cases. During the study period, the call center attempted to contact 1,027,911 COVID-19 cases, successfully reaching 802,525 cases (78.1%). Follow-up calls were made to 1,126,334 cases, with a success rate of 74%. The call center appeared particularly valuable during the initial period of the pandemic until it was overwhelmed by the significantly more transmissible Omicron variant of the virus. Two weaknesses were identified: gaps in reaching non-Jordanian citizen cases and difficulty in keeping up with case volume during the Omicron wave of February-March 2022, when reported cases peaked at over 20,000 per day. One-third of all reached cases said that they had been referred for testing through contact tracing. Contact tracing activities led by the MOH were instrumental in identifying new cases, optimizing resource allocation, improving surveillance and data systems, targeting vulnerable population, and supporting mitigation strategies to combat the COVID-19 pandemic in Jordan.

Towards Environmental Sustainability: The Impact of External Debt and Government Expenditure on Carbon Emissions in Somalia

This study aims to assess the effect of external debt and government expenditure on carbon emissions in Somalia. To do so, the study employed a rigorous econometric approaches such as autoregressive distributed lag model (ARDL), Fully modified least square (FMOLS), and Dynamic least square (DOLS). Findings demonstrated that external debt (LNED) positively and significantly affects carbon emissions. Results revealed that a 1%, or a point increase of external debt, rises 0.29% into the emitted emissions. Moreover, the study found that the long-run coefficient of government expenditure (LNGE) positively correlates with emissions. However, a 1% increase in total government expenditure significantly increases CO2 emissions by 0.05% in the long run. So, regarding the positive correlation between external debt, government expenditure, and carbon emissions, the study suggests that the government should strategically use its expenditures and external debt to fund environmentally sustainable projects. This approach aims to reduce carbon emissions while promoting sustainable development and balancing economic growth with ecological conservation.

The Financial Risks in Toll Road Development in Indonesia: Challenges and Development Strategies for the Probowangi Toll Road

Probolinggo-Banyuwangi toll road, which crosses mountainous areas in East Java. Toll road construction in areas with varying topography often faces significant technical and environmental challenges, which can affect costs, completion time, and project sustainability. This study uses a quantitative approach with a descriptive method to evaluate risk factors that impact project finances, such as construction costs, dependence on funding sources, interest rate fluctuations, and traffic volume predictions. Primary data was collected through questionnaires, while secondary data was obtained from financial planning documents and related project topography. Data analysis was conducted using multiple linear regression with a path analysis model. The results of this study are expected to identify key variables that influence financial risk and provide recommendations for effective mitigation strategies. This research is expected to contribute to the development of policies and financial risk management practices for similar infrastructure projects in the future.

Optimum Use of Recycled Waste Materials as Partial Replacement of Fine Aggregate in Portland Cement Concrete Mixes

This study explored the independent utilization of five common waste materials - rubber, plastic, glass, slag, and sewage sludge ash (SSA) - as partial replacement of fine aggregate in Portland cement concrete (PCC) mixes. The main objective was to determine an optimum substitution range for each waste material that would offer well performing concrete in terms of workability, compressive strength, and durability. To this end, multiple concrete batches were prepared, incorporating each waste material at four different levels: 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% by weight of fine aggregate. Then, concrete samples (100-mm diameter × 200-mm tall cylinders) were cast from each batch and were moisture-cured for 7, 14, and 28 days prior to testing. Also, the chemical composition of each waste material was identified using FTIR spectroscopy to understand its impact on the development of concrete strength. While most waste led to the diminished strength gains at all substitution rates, the addition of glass, slag, and SSA contributed positively to the strength development at specific replacement levels: 5% for glass, 10 - 15% for slag, and 5 – 15% for SSA. Furthermore, these additions of glass and slag exhibited comparable workability and durability although SSA did not exhibit comparable workability and durability. The findings of this study can hold significant implications for environmental sustainability and cost effectiveness in construction projects.

ECOLOGICAL NICHES AND IMPLICATIONS FOR REFORESTATION OF PTEROCARPUS ERINACEUS, KHAYA SENEGALENSIS AND ISOBERLINIA DOKA IN THE CLASSIFIED FORESTS OF NORTHERN COTE DIVOIRE

Deforestation in Cote dIvoire, particularly in the Pale and Pouniakele classified forests, threatens biodiversity and essential ecosystem services. This study explores the potential of Pterocarpus erinaceus, Khaya senegalensis, and Isoberliniadoka to restore degraded ecosystems through reforestation projects, using maximum entropy modeling. The objective is to analyze the ecological niches of these species in order to optimize reforestation strategies. The results show that Pterocarpus erinaceus has a high tolerance to climate variations, with an average AUC of 0.878, and a concentrated distribution in the central and northern savannahs. The main factors influencing its presence are the standard deviation of temperatures (47%) and humidity (15.4%). Khaya senegalensis, on the other hand, is well adapted to open environments with low vegetation cover and high climate variability. Its mean AUC of 0.893 indicates a robust prediction, with areas of presence in the central-eastern part of the country. Major contributions include temperature standard deviation (21.4%) and NDVI (18.5%). Finally, Isoberliniadoka shows greater sensitivity to stable climatic conditions, with a mean AUC of 0.848 and a presence limited to northern regions, where forest cover (32.1%) and mean temperature (39.7%) are the dominant variables. Ecological differences are observed between species, mainly influenced by climate variability and vegetation density. This implies the importance of adapting reforestation programs to the environmental specificities of each species. This study offers practical recommendations to improve the sustainability of reforestation projects in Cote dIvoire, taking into account local ecological challenges.

An Analysis of Architectural Characteristics of Durham & Gloucester Court Designed by Alison Brooks as a Sustainable Urban Regeneration Project

An Analysis of Architectural Characteristics of Durham & Gloucester Court Designed by Alison Brooks as a Sustainable Urban Regeneration Project

Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Agent-Based Modeling in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Industry: A Comprehensive Review

This paper explores the transformative impact of agent-based modeling (ABM) on the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, highlighting its indispensable role in revolutionizing project management, construction processes, safety protocols, and sustainability initiatives including energy optimization and occupants’ comfort. Through an in-depth review of 178 documents published between 1970 and 2024 on current practices and the integration of ABM with emerging digital technologies, this study underscores the critical importance of ABM in facilitating enhanced decision-making, resource optimization, and complex system simulations. For instance, ABM is shown to reduce project delays by up to 15% through enhanced resource allocation and improve safety outcomes by simulating worker behavior and identifying potential hazards in dynamic construction environments. The results reveal ABM’s potential to significantly improve construction methodologies, integrate technological advancements seamlessly, and contribute to the development of sustainable and resilient building practices. Furthermore, this paper identifies key areas for future research, including the exploration of ABM’s capabilities in conjunction with other digital innovations to unlock new avenues for efficiency and sustainability in construction. This study sets out a forward-looking agenda for providing this modeling approach to address contemporary challenges and harness opportunities for innovation and growth in the AEC sector.

Impact of Building Information Modelling in achieving Sustainable Efficiency

This review paper explores into the impact of Building Information Modelling (BIM) implementation on sustainable efficiency within construction projects. It systematically examines BIM’s influence on sustainable project performance, its utilization in construction organizations, and the identification of barriers and enablers affecting the integration of sustainable practices through BIM, with recommendations to overcome these barriers. Methodologically, the review synthesizes extensive literature on BIM in construction field is conducted through systematic searches across databases like Scopus and Google Scholar from 2006 to 2024. The findings reveal BIM’s transformative role in the construction industry’s digital evolution, enhancing collaboration, design clash detection, cost estimation, and scheduling, with promising potential for environmentally conscious design through its integration with sustainable practices. Nonetheless, challenges such as high adoption costs, expertise limitations, and software compatibility hinder widespread BIM implementation, particularly in sustainability-focused projects. The study underscores the immense potential of BIM in supporting sustainability within construction, emphasizing the necessity for guidance, training, modified business models, and collaborative efforts to unlock its full potential. This review bridges the gap between BIM’s potential and practical implementation, providing insights into leveraging BIM for sustainable construction practices, thereby promising a more environmentally conscious future for the construction industry.

지속가능한 프로젝트 관리를 위한 프로젝트 제어 방안: 도로 침수 예방 사례 프로젝트를 중심으로

As environmental pollution, energy depletion, and maintenance difficulties due to changes in social requirements arise during project progress, interest in the sustainability of project management has increased. Accordingly, sustainable project management theories have been proposed to complement the short-term goal-focused approach and performance evaluation methods that existing project management methods have adhered to. However, the sustainable project management theories have not been extended to empirical research. In this paper, we provides a case study of a sustainable project management framework and control mechanisms such as a collaboration model and incentive model using a road flood prevention project as an example. The case project was a project for improving urban infrastructure and was carried out with consideration for environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Through sustainable project management, the case project was able to achieve its sustainability goals and shows the results of the application of the control mechanisms.

Stakeholder Exposure and Sustainability of Corporate Social Responsibility Community Projects in Telecommunication in Rwanda

Stakeholder Exposure and Sustainability of Corporate Social Responsibility Community Projects in Telecommunication in Rwanda

Carbon capture and sustainability in LNG projects: Engineering lessons for a greener future

Carbon capture and sustainability in LNG projects: Engineering lessons for a greener future

Influence of Technical Reasons on Cost Overruns of Infrastructural Projects: A Sustainable Development Perspective

Cost overruns are a significant issue in infrastructure projects, adversely affecting not only economic performance but also sustainability goals by straining resources and extending project timelines. There is consensus among researchers about the persistence of cost overruns and the importance of accurate estimates. However, there are significant differences in the explanation of the reasons for the overruns. While we recognize the importance of understanding the reasons for cost overruns at all stages of project development, we have focused on the reasons for cost overruns after contract award due to the rarely available real and valid data collected at the source of the information. We analyze the deviations between actual and contracted costs, as well as the dependence of cost deviations of individual project types on the size of the contract. For example, the size of the tunnel significantly affects relative cost deviations, while for standard viaducts or road sections this effect is minimal. The results confirmed that cost overruns are less frequent in standard facilities than in those where the experience factor has little influence on the final cost estimate. For example, deviations in the average value of the contracted costs for highway sections range between −12.1% and 27.9% of the contracted value, and for standardized viaduct projects they range between −16.73% and 6.27% of the contracted value. The type of distribution function of deviations between actual and contractually agreed costs was investigated, and a predictive model for estimating future cost deviations of project programs was presented. The goal is to improve economic sustainability and the related optimization of resources in the development of infrastructure, which contributes to the broader agenda of sustainable development. The results encourage the adoption of improved project documentation and forecasting tools, which are essential for sustainable project management.