Mogaji, I J; Mewomo, M C and Bondinuba, F K (2024) Assessment of barriers to the adoption of innovative building materials (IBM) for sustainable construction in the Nigerian construction industry. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 32(13), pp. 1-26. ISSN 0969-9988
Abstract
Purpose: While innovative building materials (IBM) have emerged as a promising solution for addressing the global construction industry's environmental, economic and social challenges, their adoption is plagued with increasing challenges in the Nigerian construction industry (NCI). To provide practical strategies to overcome the present IBM challenges in the NCI, the barriers that hinder its successful adoption need detailed investigation. Consequently, this study examines the barriers that affect the adoption of IBM for sustainable construction (SC) in the NCI. Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative research approach was used to obtain primary data from 282 construction professionals, viz. architects, builders, engineers and quantity surveyors, via a closed-ended questionnaire survey. Data were analysed using a mean item score (descriptive analysis) and exploratory factor analysis (inferential analysis). Findings: The study revealed the top five most significant barriers to IBM adoption in the NCI. These barriers include lack of awareness and knowledge, learning/training period, cost and economic viability, lack of qualified staff and lack of end-user involvement. Factor analysis revealed five components of barriers: resource and policy-related barriers, perception and cultural-related barriers, organisational-related barriers, awareness and market-related barriers and resistance and stakeholder engagement-related barriers. Practical implications: The findings of this study have several practical implications for construction professionals, policymakers and other stakeholders in Nigeria. The study highlights the need for increased awareness and technical expertise to promote the adoption of IBM in the NCI. The study also recommends several practical strategies for overcoming the barriers to IBM adoption and promoting SC practices in Nigeria, such as fostering a positive perception of sustainable concepts, fostering stakeholder support and involvement and promoting a more conducive environment for adopting sustainable practices. The implication of this study transcends the local context, offering a model for other countries to consider, thereby contributing to a global shift towards sustainable construction practices. Social implications: The findings highlight the critical role of societal attitudes and awareness in adopting IBM, suggesting the need for educational and awareness programmes to shift public and organisational perception. This shows the importance of cultural change and societal readiness to embrace sustainable construction practices. Originality/value: This study contributes significantly to knowledge of the barriers to adopting IBM for SC in NCI. Findings from the study will inform policymakers, industry professionals and other stakeholders about the key barriers that require attention and intervention, facilitating the initiatives to overcome these barriers effectively.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | adoption; barriers; innovative building materials; Nigerian construction industry; sustainable construction; questionnaire survey |
| Index terms: | methodology, questionnaire, cultural change, exploratory factor analysis, sustainable construction practice, sustainable construction, strategy, programme, builder, survey, global construction, construction professional, factor analysis, investigation, building material, stakeholder engagement, architect, construction industry, quantity surveying, sustainable practice, quantitative research, engineer, Nigeria |
| Subjects: | strategic management, practitioner, research methods, Geography, sustainable construction, building materials, data analysis and analytics, data collection methods, profession, community and social dimensions, project controls, sustainable practices, sociology, industry analysis, statistical analysis, management, professional development |
| Topics: | Sustainability, Geographical Context, Roles and Professions, Stakeholder Management, Research Practice, Information Management, Business Strategy, Time Control, Organizational Design, International Construction, Design Practice |
| Descriptive scope: | 5 PCTEA |
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