Mensah, S; Ayarkwa, J and Nani, G (2020) A theoretical framework for conceptualizing contractors' adaptation to environmentally sustainable construction. International Journal of Construction Management, 20(7), pp. 801-811. ISSN 1562-3599
Abstract
Theories are employed to enhance conceptualization of research ideas. They facilitate useful explanations for better understanding of research findings. However, the use of theories to advance studies in sustainable construction has been given little attention. According to Agenda 21 for sustainable construction in developing countries, contractors are yet to achieve capability to establish sustainable construction due to knowledge gaps and lack of relevant frameworks. The enormity of the ramifications of contractors' inability to adapt to environmentally sustainable construction (ESC) justifies adopting a multi-theory approach for understanding the dynamics of adaptation to ESC. In this study, the usefulness of three theories in facilitating understanding of the complexities surrounding contractors' adaptation to ESC was reviewed. The three theories are: resilience theory, ecological modernization theory and institutional theory. Following the review, it was found that resilience, isomorphic drivers and technology are integral elements needed for improving contractors' capability to adapt to ESC. The theoretical review yielded integrated framework that conceptualizes the dynamics and actions relevant to contractor’s adaptation to ESC.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | adaptation; contractors; developing countries; sustainable construction; theoretical framework |
| Index terms: | institutional theory, adaptation, dynamics, sustainable construction, developing country, complexity, ecological modernization |
| Subjects: | systems engineering, sociology, development economics, sustainable construction, health safety and environment, user focus |
| Topics: | Sustainability, Engineering Principles, Health and Safety, Business Strategy, International Construction, Design Practice |
| Descriptive scope: | 3 PCT |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here