Assessment of barriers to the adoption of innovative building materials (IBM) for sustainable construction in the Nigerian construction industry

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.

Citation

Mogaji, I.J., Mewomo, M.C. and Bondinuba, F.K. (2025), "Assessment of barriers to the adoption of innovative building materials (IBM) for sustainable construction in the Nigerian construction industry", Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 32 No. 13, pp. 1-26. https://doi.org/10.1108/ECAM-04-2024-0430

1. Introduction

The construction industry’s impact on global greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion is a pressing concern, prompting a growing need for sustainable building practices and materials worldwide. While construction activities play a crucial role in enhancing human well-being, they concurrently exert a detrimental impact on the environment. The environmental implications stem from the considerable influence of building materials globally, primarily due to the extensive energy consumption and substantial greenhouse gas emissions involved (Schmidt et al., 2020). Researchers from previous studies, such as Abera (2024), Toriola-Coker et al. (2021), have highlighted the construction industry’s significant consumption of natural resources. Specifically, the sector accounts for 12–16% of available water usage, 40% of energy production, and 40% of all raw materials, encompassing renewable and non-renewable resources. Sustainable construction is a crucial component of environmental sustainability (Ayarkwa et al., 2022). This technique is highly esteemed by governments, environmentalists, and many stakeholders because of its acknowledged benefits (Kibert, 2016). According to Tam et al. (2021), some 171 nations globally have implemented environmental management systems and frameworks based on ISO 14000 to tackle problems arising from greenhouse gas emissions. With the projected world population reaching over 9.8 billion by 2050 (United Nations Department of Economics and Social Affairs (UNDESA), 2017), there will be a significant surge in the need for energy, raw materials, and other resources (Ayarkwa et al., 2022).

Innovative Building Materials (IBM) refer to new and advanced materials developed for construction that aim to enhance sustainability, efficiency, and performance (Mogaji, 2023). These materials often include recycled content, use less energy in production, and provide superior properties to traditional building materials. However, as an aspect of sustainable innovation/construction, IBM has emerged as a promising solution for addressing the global construction industry’s environmental, economic and social challenges (Darko et al., 2017). Integrating IBM, which can optimise resource usage, can contribute to mitigating the environmental impacts of the construction industry (Bamigboye et al., 2019). In recent years, the adoption of IBM has gained prominence due to their potential to enhance sustainability and efficiency (Mewomo et al., 2023; Mogaji, 2023). However, the barriers to adopting IBM can vary significantly between developed and developing countries. This discrepancy requires a focused exploration of these barriers within specific contexts, such as the NCI (Akindele et al., 2023). Previous studies have examined the barriers to IBM adoption in developed and developing countries, revealing various economic, technical, and socio-cultural challenges (Akindele et al., 2023; Chan et al., 2017). For instance, in developed countries, the primary obstacles often include the high initial cost of materials, stringent regulatory requirements, and the need for advanced technical skills (Ahn et al., 2013). In contrast, developing countries face additional barriers, such as a lack of awareness and knowledge of professionals and clients, misunderstanding of the sustainability concept and poor education about sustainability (Eze et al., 2023).

The construction industry in developing countries like Nigeria is markedly different from that in developed nations. One significant difference lies in technological advancement and infrastructure development (Dosumu and Aigbavboa, 2020). While developed countries benefit from well-established supply chains and advanced construction technologies, these nations still face challenges with regulatory complexity and high costs when implementing cutting-edge innovations (Chan et al., 2017). On the other hand, developing countries often struggle with more foundational challenges, such as lack of awareness and logistical barriers, making adopting basic and advanced construction technologies more difficult. This indicates that, although both developed and developing countries encounter challenges, the nature of these challenges differs significantly, with developed nations focusing on innovation and regulation while developing nations struggle with foundational infrastructure.

Furthermore, socio-cultural factors, including resistance to change and preference for traditional building methods, are more pronounced in developing contexts (AlSanad, 2015). The generalizability of studies on IBM barriers from other developing countries to the Nigerian context is limited due to unique local factors. Nigeria’s construction industry has distinct regulatory environments, economic conditions, and cultural attitudes towards construction practices (Babatunde and Low, 2015). For example, while economic constraints are a common barrier in many developing countries, the specific economic landscape of Nigeria, influenced by its oil-dependent economy, presents unique challenges and opportunities for the construction sector (Adewuyi and Odesola, 2015). The challenges are inflationary pressures on construction materials and a lack of local production infrastructure for innovative materials. At the same time, opportunities include the potential for developing locally sourced alternative materials, such as using agricultural or industrial waste for sustainable building products, which could reduce costs and promote environmental sustainability in the construction sector. Also, during periods of economic stability, there could be increased investments in research and development for innovative materials.

Therefore, there is a clear need to explore the barriers to IBM adoption within the specific context of the NCI. This study aims to fill this gap by comprehensively assessing these barriers, contributing to the broader understanding of sustainable construction practices in developing countries. This raises the following question:

• (1)

  How do the barriers hinder the adoption of IBM for sustainable construction in the Nigerian Construction Industry?

To effectively promote the adoption of innovative building materials (IBM), it is essential to recognise and address the existing barriers. While there has been extensive research on barriers to IBM adoption in developed countries (Soliman et al., 2022), the same cannot be said for developing nations. The existing research by Soliman et al. (2022) explored innovative construction material technologies for sustainable civil infrastructure, while Mewomo et al. (2023) reviewed barriers to adopting IBM for sustainable construction. However, there is a research gap concerning the specific challenges faced in Nigeria regarding IBM adoption for sustainable construction. This empirical study aims to fill this gap by offering insights into unique barriers in the Nigerian context, contributing valuable knowledge to the field. Bridging this gap is crucial, especially in developing countries like Nigeria, where IBM’s introduction to the construction industry is progressing slowly.

Additionally, it is essential to analyse the criticality of IBM adoption barriers in varying detail levels. Building on this foundation, the primary objective is to assess potential barriers hindering IBM adoption in the NCI, focusing on Nigeria’s development context. The study’s findings can serve as a reference for future research and contribute to the overall knowledge of IBM adoption for sustainable construction in the NCI. This study is significant as it identifies and analyses specific barriers in the Nigerian context and highlights their potential applicability in other developing countries facing similar challenges. The research addresses the pressing need for innovation and sustainability in the construction industry, both nationally and globally. This study acknowledges that several developed countries have already begun to leverage IBM in their construction activities (Camacho et al., 2018; Soliman et al., 2022). Section 2 of the article reviews existing studies on the subject matter, while Section 3 describes the research methodology. The survey results are presented in Section 4, while Sections 5 and 6 delve into the discussion of the results and implications of the study. Sections 7 and 8 explain the conclusion and recommendations, as well as the limitations of the study and future research opportunities.

2. Literature review

2.1 Innovative building materials (IBM) and their role in sustainable construction

Innovative building materials are traditionally crafted uniquely to attain specific performance objectives. These materials cater to global requirements by prioritising optimal energy efficiency, encouraging eco-friendly methodologies, and guaranteeing durable structures (Soliman et al., 2022). Some examples of IBM, according to Kapliński (2018), include 3D-printed sandstone, bamboo-reinforced concrete, bricks derived from pollutants, bio-receptive concrete, woven microbial cellulose and according to Mogaji (2023), pigmented concrete, light-generating concrete, 3D-printed graphene and timbercrete (Mogaji et al., 2023). Another innovative material is husk-crete, developed from rice chaff and modified cement mortars. As studied by Akinyemi et al. (2020), this composite material meets standards for lightweight structural materials and offers excellent thermal properties. As Mewomo et al. (2023) suggested, utilising these materials extends beyond cost-effectiveness. It encompasses the reuse of materials, reduction of environmental impact, efficient thermal properties, utilisation of renewable resources, assurance of economic sustainability, and the generation of minimal harmful emissions. The utilisation of IBM in sustainable construction is essential for promoting sustainability. These materials, advanced building technology, and innovative project finance are essential to modern construction practices (Mewomo et al., 2023). IBM are renowned for its eco-friendly characteristics and resource efficiency, and it plays a significant role in advancing sustainable practices in the construction industry. Umar et al. (2012) state that sustainable materials offer economic benefits and possess qualities like thermal efficiency and environmental friendliness. By examining the importance of IBM, we can gain insight into its substantial contributions to achieving sustainability goals in construction. IBM encompass a wide variety of technologically advanced and environmentally conscious materials. These materials have unique qualities, such as reduced energy consumption, minimal environmental impact, efficient resource utilisation, and the ability to be recycled or reused.

In recent years, IBM has gained significant attention for achieving sustainable construction (Mewomo et al., 2023). IBM aims to serve as a sustainable alternative to traditional construction materials. A significant benefit of IBM is their capacity to enhance building energy efficiency (Mogaji, 2023; Nasr et al., 2023). By incorporating these materials, structures can benefit from improved thermal insulation properties. This reduction leads to decreased energy costs and contributes to the overall reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

2.2 Barriers to IBM adoption in the construction industry

Research on barriers to adopting innovative building materials seeks to define, comprehend, and suggest remedies for those barriers. These studies have revealed that barriers exist in developed and developing nations (Abadi, 2014; Eze et al., 2021; Kaburu, 2017; Nikyema and Blouin, 2020; Mewomo et al., 2017; Xue et al., 2014). The construction industry uses IBM but still faces many challenges in its implementation (Eze et al., 2021). The construction industry in Nigeria is rapidly expanding, and there is an urgent need to adopt sustainable building practices and materials to reduce the industry’s environmental impact (Aghimien et al., 2018). IBM is essential to this transition, providing better environmental performance and cost savings over traditional materials. Despite its numerous advantages, IBM’s use in NCI still needs improvement. Salgadu et al. (2020) identify using IBMs for wall structures like bamboo, recycled plastics and phase-changing materials as challenging due to limited technical knowledge and awareness among people about these materials and projects. Lee et al. (2019) suggest an effective communication process involving researchers, material designers, suppliers, and end-users to improve technical knowledge and raise awareness. A lack of awareness and understanding of these materials, limited access to financing, and a need for a supportive regulatory environment are all impeding the adoption of IBM in Nigeria (Alabi, 2012). Implementing sustainable construction is hampered by the fact that most key actors must know the potential benefits (Aigbavboa et al., 2017). Another significant impediment is the need for a supportive regulatory environment (Owolabi and Faleye, 2019). Building codes and standards in Nigeria are frequently outdated and must adequately reflect the most recent innovations in building materials and technologies (Omenihu et al., 2016). According to Were et al. (2015), the primary obstacle to implementing green building practices is the inadequate enforcement of sustainable building codes. This can make it difficult for construction companies using more sustainable materials to obtain the necessary approvals and certifications. Also, the fragmented nature of the construction industry, according to Ozorhon et al. (2010), Gambatese and Hallowell (2011), Eze et al. (2019), Owolabi and Faleye (2019), can make it challenging to ensure consistent and standardised use of IBM across different projects. This can result in a lack of confidence in these materials, as building professionals and owners may need to be more familiar with their performance and behaviour. Table 1 lists 31 barriers to IBM adoption in the construction industry.

3. Research methodology

This study employed a questionnaire survey as a data collection method, a systematic approach for gathering information from a sample (Tan, 2011). Therefore, a questionnaire survey was conducted in this research to investigate the barriers and strategies for the successful adoption of IBM. This research falls under the category of quantitative research (Creswell, 2014). This quantitative research method was selected primarily for its ability to facilitate data quantification and generalisation through statistical analysis (Kothari, 2011). Olopade et al. (2020) affirmed that this approach offers a systematic means of gathering extensive data, thereby allowing for a thorough examination of the subject and a more profound understanding of the variables under study. The study specifically targeted construction professionals in Nigeria who possessed a comprehensive understanding and expertise in the application of IBM within the construction industry. Quantitative data for this study was collected using purposive sampling, a non-random sampling technique. This study focused on construction professionals practising in Lagos State, Nigeria.

Lagos State was selected as the research site primarily due to its dynamic and diverse construction sector (Oke et al., 2023); moreover, as a principal economic and commercial centre, Lagos State accommodates a wide array of construction projects (Oke et al., 2024) compared to other states in Nigeria. Lagos is ideal for examining the barriers to IBM adoption in the Nigerian construction industry. Although Lagos is cited as one of the second most populous states, according to Chukwu (2024), the selection was based more on the vibrancy and scale of its construction activities rather than its population size. Purposive sampling involves selecting participants based on their likelihood of providing pertinent and valuable information, as defined by Kelly (2010). A total population of 5,108 members in Lagos State was identified by reviewing annual reports from professional bodies representing these practitioners. This population comprised 958 architects, 610 builders, 2,670 engineers, and 870 quantity surveyors, as documented by authoritative sources such as the Nigerian Institute of Architecture (2020), Nigerian Institute of Building (2020), Nigerian Society of Engineers (2020) and Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveying (2020). The Yamane equation (Yamane, 1967) was utilised to establish an appropriate sample size, resulting in a sample of 363 respondents with a precision level (e) of 5%. Through a strategic combination of sampling techniques and the determination of an appropriate sample size, the study aimed to encompass a diverse range of perspectives and experiences within the construction industry in Lagos State. Google Forms was selected as the survey administration platform due to its user-friendly interface, flexibility in questionnaire design, and ease of data collection and analysis. The questionnaire was formulated based on a thorough review of existing literature. The questionnaire comprised sections addressing the research objectives and gathering background information from the participants. It also included questions for rating the criticality of the 31 identified barriers to IBM adoption using a five-point Likert scale (1 = not critical, 2 = less critical, 3 = neutral, 4 = critical, and 5 = very critical). The question was, “What is your level of agreement with the following barriers affecting the adoption of innovative building materials for sustainable construction in the Nigerian construction industry?” Respondents were instructed to respond to their degree of level with the statements contained in the instrument. Out of the initial target of 363 participants, 282 were successfully obtained, resulting in a response rate of 77.6%. Wu et al. (2022) deemed this response rate adequate.

3.1 Data analysis technique

3.1.1 Cronbach’s alpha technique

The scale reliability evaluation commonly involves using Cronbach’s alpha method. This widely adopted technique computes the average correlation or internal consistency among the factors within a survey questionnaire, providing a robust measure of the questionnaire’s reliability and consistency. This study used Cronbach’s alpha to assess the reliability of the 31 identified barriers to IBM adoption. The computed value for using the five-point Likert scale was 0.951, indicating that the measurement scale was reliable. According to Kasim et al. (2019) considered 0.90 and above as “Good reliability”. As a result, the gathered sample can be considered a cohesive unit and is appropriate for subsequent sections involving the ranking analysis and factor analysis (FA), as indicated by Mao et al. (2015).

3.1.2 Relative importance index (RII)

Hossen et al. (2015) introduced the RII method as a statistical technique for ranking factors. Shahsavand et al. (2018) also utilised the RII approach to assessing the relative importance of causes of delays in the construction industry, based on their probability of occurrence and impact, using a five-point Likert scale. The RII determines the critical cause or impact component, where a higher value signifies greater significance. The barriers were determined by ranking based on RII; the rating levels are shown in Table 2. The “Critical” is used to rank the barriers of IBM.

3.1.3 Factor analysis (FA) technique

FA was adopted to analyse only IBM’s barriers. This method has been used in other studies in the construction management research domain (Aluko et al., 2020; Mewomo et al., 2021; Oke and Aliu, 2024; Zulu et al., 2023). A series of analyses were conducted on the collected data before performing FA to determine their suitability and adequacy for the intended purpose. This analysis was conducted using SPSS IBM (version 29). The initial assessment involved examining the sample size and the number of variables in the dataset. The sample size of 282 was sufficient, as suggested by a previous study (Hair et al., 2010; Pallant, 2020). As for the number of variables, Hair et al. (1998) suggest that a range of 20–50 variables is commonly regarded as the most suitable for conducting FA. However, research has indicated that fewer variables can be utilised (Kim et al., 2016). Nonetheless, the 31 variables employed in this study were deemed sufficient for FA. Eze et al. (2018) suggest that variables with communalities figures of ≥0.5 align well with the construct and other variables. The findings presented in Supplementary Table 1 reveal that out of the 31 barriers assessed, thirty (30) possess communalities figures above 0.50. The communalities value in the study ranges from a maximum of 0.842 to a minimum of 0.414, with an average communalities value of 0.694. Considering the number of barriers, sample size, and communalities figures obtained, the findings suggest that the collected data is appropriate and sufficient for conducting FA.

The collected data’s factorizability was assessed by applying the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) measure of sampling adequacy and Bartlett’s test of sphericity. In this study, the KMO value of 0.908 and the significant level of 0.000 for Bartlett’s test are depicted in Table 3. Previous studies by Stern (2010) have recommended a KMO value greater than 0.7 to indicate an adequate sample size. In line with the recommendations of Pallant (2020), it is suggested that Bartlett’s test of sphericity should yield a statistically significant result (p < 0.05) in order to establish the suitability of FA. The KMO and Bartlett’s test results for this study affirm that the gathered data suits FA.

4. Survey results

4.1 Background information of the respondents

The study’s background information reveals that the participants were primarily from the construction industry, with Builders being the largest group at 35.8%, followed by Engineers (23.0%), Quantity Surveyors (22.7%), and Architects (18.4%). Regarding educational qualifications, respondents included individuals with various qualifications, such as National Diplomas (1.1%), Higher National Diplomas (9.6%), B.Sc./B. Tech degrees (46.1%), M.Sc./M.Tech degrees (29.9%) and PhDs (13.5%). Concerning work experience, respondents had varying levels of experience, with 13.2% having 1–5 years, 28.8% having 6–10 years, 33.4% having 11–15 years, 18.3% having 16–20 years, and 6.3% having over 20 years of experience. On average, the respondents had 12.9 years of work experience. Regarding specialisation within the construction industry, respondents represented different areas, including contractors (13.1%), consultants (20.9%), clients (7.4%), educational institution researchers (34.4%), site engineers/supervisors (14.5%), subcontractors (5.0%), and professional bodies representatives (4.6%). Furthermore, the organisations represented by the respondents had varying years of operation, with 8.2% operating for 1–5 years, 8.2% operating for 6–10 years, 14.2% operating for 11–15 years, 18.1% operating for 16–20 years, and 51.4% operating for over 20 years. The average number of years organisations had been operating was approximately 23.3 years.

This background information implies that the study encompasses diverse professionals with significant industry experience and various educational qualifications. This study benefits immensely from including respondents with diverse educational backgrounds, including the 13.5% who hold PhDs despite their smaller numbers. Respondents with PhDs contribute expertise and advanced knowledge (Oke and Aliu, 2024) to this study. This diversity allows for a comprehensive and well-rounded perspective on the construction industry, contributing to the credibility and richness of the study’s findings and conclusions.

4.2 Barriers to IBM results

4.2.1 Factor analysis (barriers)

The data obtained from Lagos, Nigeria, which includes 31 identified barriers, underwent factor analysis using the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) extraction method. The factor loading cutoff point 0.50 was applied based on a valid response rate of 282. Supplementary Table 2 also displays the criteria for conducting PCA on the 31 variables and the calculated parameters for conducting PCA in the Nigeria column. The PCA focused on data reliability and adequacy verification.

• (1)

  Total variance explained

Having met the necessary conditions for factor analysis, PCA was performed using the extraction method. Supplementary Table 3 presents the results, revealing that five (5) components were extracted with eigenvalues greater than 1. The extracted components accounted for 40.995% for Component 1, 13.217% for Component 2, 7.751% for Component 3, 3.621% for Component 4, and 3.295% for Component 5. Overall, the PCA and extracted components explained approximately 68.879% of the total cumulative variance, satisfying the criterion of factors explaining at least 50% of the variation as suggested by Ayarkwa et al. (2022), Papandrea et al. (2020), Stern (2010).

• (2)

  Scree plot graph

According to Pallant (2020), evaluating the scree plot when determining the specific components is advised. By examining the scree plot, the researcher looks for a noticeable change or “elbow” in its shape, and only components beyond this point are considered for retention. By observing the scree plot depicted in Figure 1, it is evident that the slope of the curve gradually decreases, indicating a flattening of the explained variance as each eigenvalue diminishes. The information conveyed in Figure 1 reveals that five factors were derived from the extracted loadings, as also demonstrated in the scree plot. Consequently, the number of factors obtained corresponds to the count of data points ≥ 1, disregarding those directly below the value of 1. For the same purpose, this study also adopted the conventional approach proposed by Aghimien et al. (2019) of selecting an eigenvalue of 1 for factor extraction.

• (3)

  Rotated Component Matrix

The findings in Supplementary Table 4 display the five extracted components and the corresponding variables that load onto them. According to the research conducted by Spector (1992), a variable is considered to have a distinct component structure when it displays a substantial factor loading (loading >0.50) exclusively on a single component. Hence, only factors that meet this criterion, with a loading of 0.5 or higher, are deemed significant and are included in the discussion for each principal component.

• (4)

  Component naming

Table 4 shows the five (5) component names. Component 1 is named “Resource and Policy-related barriers” and has seven variables. Component 2 is named “Perception and Cultural related barriers” and has six variables. Component 3 is named “Organisational-related barriers” and has six variables. Component 4 is named “Awareness and Market-related barriers” and has six variables. Component 5 is named “Resistance and Stakeholder Engagement related barriers” and has six variables.

4.2.2 Results of relative importance index (RII) ranking (barriers)

The study identified 31 barriers to adopting IBM in developing countries' construction industries. Relative Importance Index (RII) ranking methods determined the most critical barriers. The levels of rating used for these barriers are presented in Table 2. Table 4 shows that thirty (30) barriers were classified as highly critical, while one barrier, BA22, was considered critical.

Awareness and market-related barriers were the most significant obstacles to IBM adoption in the Nigerian construction industry. Notably, lack of awareness and knowledge (RII = 0.9057) was the primary inhibitor for adopting IBM for sustainable practices within the sector. Other critical barriers include the learning/training period (RII = 0.8865), cost and economic viability (RII = 0.8844), lack of public interest and buyers' demand (RII = 0.8723), characteristics of the construction industry, particularly its project-based nature and price-based competition (RII = 0.8539), and a passive culture (RII = 0.8333). Resistance and stakeholder engagement-related barriers were also deemed very critical, with lack of qualified staff (RII = 0.8829) ranked as the most significant, followed by lack of end-user involvement (RII = 0.8766), status quo in rules and regulations (RII = 0.8730), poor coordination and communication among project participants (RII = 0.8674), lack of local authority and government involvement (RII = 0.8454), and unwillingness to change (RII = 0.8319). Resource and policy-related barriers were similarly rated as very critical, with lack of exemplar demonstration projects (RII = 0.8454) emerging as the highest-ranked barrier, followed by poor funding for research and development, training, and education (RII = 0.8709), lack of clear benefits (RII = 0.8702), availability of green/ innovative /sustainable building materials (RII = 0.8674), lack of government policy (RII = 0.8617), poor technical know-how (RII = 0.8567), and lack of industry regulations and codes (RII = 0.8475). All variables were considered critical in terms of perception and cultural-related barriers. The perception that the industry is doing well without IBM (RII = 0.8652) was the most significant, followed by a lack of sustainability measurement tools (RII = 0.7661), enhanced monetary value (RII = 0.7536), and improved company image and reputation (RII = 0.7339). Among organisational-related barriers, five out of six factors were rated as very critical, with only one reaching a critical level. The excessive subcontracting of construction works (RII = 0.8361) was the most significant, followed by employees’ resistance (RII = 0.8355), project delivery method (RII = 0.8269), lack of top management commitment (RII = 0.8219), and risk of failure (RII = 0.8135). The fragmented nature of construction (RII = 0.8092) was ranked the lowest among all barriers, with a criticality level rating of critical. Table 4 provides the factor analysis results and relative importance index for the barriers to IBM adoption in the Nigerian construction industry. This data suggests that all the identified barriers are relevant to the NCI. Therefore, exploring alternative methods, such as FA, is essential to improve the efficiency of examining these variables (Olawumi and Chan, 2020).

5. Discussion of findings

5.1 Component discussion

5.1.1 Component 1: resource and policy related barriers

The first principal component is characterised by the highest factor loading among seven barriers, explaining approximately 40.9% of the total variance. These barriers include the availability of green/ innovative/ sustainable building materials (BA12), lack of clear benefits (BA28), inadequate funding for research and development, training, and education (BA18), absence of government policy (BA24), lack of technical expertise (BA20), absence of industry regulations and codes (BA4), and a shortage of exemplar demonstration projects (BA30). This component is referred to as “resource and policy-related” because it encompasses barriers directly linked to resources (such as the availability of sustainable building materials, funding, and technical expertise) and policies (including government policy, industry regulations, and the lack of exemplary demonstration projects). These factors emphasise the main obstacles, ranging from resource-related limitations to the absence or insufficiency of supportive policies in adopting IBM for SC in the NCI.

One primary resource-related barrier is the limited availability of environmentally sustainable materials. The scarcity of these materials significantly hampers the ability to implement IBM on a wide scale. As Nikyema and Blouin (2020) noted, increasing the production and availability of sustainable materials is essential for driving sustainable construction practices. Also, the lack of exemplar demonstration projects, as highlighted by Dzokoto and Dadzie (2013), limits the practical adoption of IBM, which is necessary to showcase the feasibility and benefits of these materials in real-world applications. Funding for research and development (R&D) is another critical resource-related barrier. The construction industry in Nigeria suffers from inadequate financial support for R&D, which stifles innovation and the adoption of new technologies (Toriola-Coker et al., 2021). This lack of funding also extends to training and education, which are vital for building the necessary skills and expertise in sustainable construction techniques. Owolabi and Faleye (2019) emphasise that developing the technical guidance and expertise required for effective IBM implementation is challenging without sufficient funding.

The absence of supportive government policies is a significant policy-related barrier (Nwogu and Emedosi, 2024). Effective adoption of IBM requires a clear and supportive policy framework that promotes sustainable building practices. Dahiru et al. (2012) argue that such policies are essential for driving the adoption of sustainable construction practices in Nigeria. Unfortunately, the current National Building Code of 2006 does not adequately address sustainability issues, as Babalola and Harinarain (2024) highlighted, indicating a critical gap in the regulatory framework that needs to be addressed to foster sustainable construction. Additionally, the lack of industry regulations and codes that support sustainable construction further complicates the adoption of IBM. The absence of such regulations means there is no standardised guideline for implementing sustainable practices, leading to inconsistencies and reluctance among stakeholders to adopt new materials and methods. As Eze et al. (2019) note, comprehensive industry regulations are needed to encourage and mandate sustainable practices.

5.1.2 Component 2: perception and cultural related barriers

The second principal component is characterised by a factor loading of six variables, explaining approximately 13.2% of the total variance. These variables include the association of sustainable concepts with luxury living (BA14), the temporary nature of construction projects (BA21), the lack of sustainability measurement tools (BA29), the absence of innovation motivators within organisations (BA25), the perception that the industry is doing well without sustainable practices (BA17), and cultural aversion to change (BA15). This component is referred to as “perception and cultural-related barriers” due to the nature of the barriers involved, which revolve around perceptions, cultural attitudes, and related obstacles that hinder the adoption of IBM for SC. These factors provide insight into the influence of perception and cultural barriers on attitudes and behaviours within the construction industry.

A predominant perception-related barrier is the association of sustainable construction with luxury living. This misconception leads many stakeholders to view sustainable practices as costly and only suitable for high-end projects (Abraham and Gundimeda, 2018). Such a view discourages the adoption of IBM in more typical, everyday construction projects, as sustainable practices are seen as an unnecessary expense rather than an investment in long-term benefits. The temporary nature of construction projects also plays a crucial role in shaping attitudes towards sustainability (Toriola-Coker et al., 2021). Projects with short-term goals often prioritise immediate cost savings over the long-term advantages of sustainable materials and methods (Eze et al., 2023). This short-term focus undermines the perceived value of investing in IBM, which might require higher initial costs but promise significant future savings and environmental benefits. Another critical barrier is the lack of sustainability measurement tools. Without standardised tools to assess and quantify the benefits of sustainable practices, it is challenging to demonstrate their value convincingly (Dzokoto and Dadzie, 2013). This gap makes it difficult for project managers and other decision-makers to justify the adoption of IBM, leading to a preference for traditional materials whose performance and costs are well-documented and understood. The absence of innovation motivators within organisations further exacerbates these barriers (Eze et al., 2019). Professionals often have little to no incentive to seek out or implement new and sustainable technologies. This lack of motivation can stem from organisational cultures that are risk-averse and resistant to change, favouring tried-and-tested methods over innovative approaches. Compounding these issues is the widespread perception that the construction industry is performing adequately without the need for sustainable practices. Research by Ozorhon et al. (2010) and Owolabi and Faleye (2019) indicates that many industry professionals believe that traditional building methods suffice, reducing the perceived necessity for adopting IBM. This complacency hinders the industry’s progress towards more sustainable practices. Also, cultural aversion to change is a significant barrier. There is often a strong resistance to altering established practices, which is deeply rooted in the cultural mindset of many industry professionals. Toriola-Coker et al. (2021) opined that this cultural resistance not only prevents the adoption of international green technologies but also discourages the development of local, sustainable practices, and in Nigeria, the construction industry is dominated by stakeholders who prefer traditional construction methods over green construction, which is increasingly accepted worldwide. This resistance to change slows down the adoption of IBM, even when they offer clear advantages over existing methods.

5.1.3 Component 3: organisational-related barriers

The third principal component also exhibits a factor loading of six variables, explaining approximately 7.8% of the total variance. The variables associated with this component are the risk of failure (BA6), lack of top management commitment (BA2), employees' resistance (BA10), the fragmented nature of the construction industry (BA22), project delivery methods (BA16), and excessive subcontracting of construction works (BA26). These barriers primarily pertain to organisational aspects, leading to the component being labelled “organisational-related barriers.” These factors shed light on the challenges and obstacles within the organisational structure, culture, and practices that impede the adoption of IBM for SC.

One of the most critical barriers is the lack of top management commitment. Leadership is very important in driving innovation and sustainability within an organisation. When top management does not prioritise or support sustainable initiatives, it becomes challenging to implement IBM effectively. Abisuga and Oyekanmi (2014) point out that efforts to adopt sustainable practices will likely falter without strong leadership due to a lack of strategic direction and resource allocation. Employees' resistance to change is another significant barrier. Organisational change often meets with resistance from employees accustomed to traditional methods and practices, as discussed in Component 2: Perception and Cultural Related Barriers by Toriola-Coker et al. (2021). The poor sustainability education in Nigerian academic institutions makes it harder for the construction industry to change its cultural practices, leading to misunderstandings about the long-term cost benefits of sustainable building or viewing it as just an extra expense (Toriola-Coker et al., 2021). This resistance can stem from a lack of understanding of the benefits of IBM or fear of job displacement due to new technologies and materials. Nwogu and Emedosi (2024) note that overcoming this resistance requires effective change management strategies, including training and clear communication about the advantages of sustainable practices. The fragmented nature of the construction industry in Nigeria further complicates the adoption of IBM. Owolabi and Faleye (2019) discuss how the construction industry’s segmentation into various small and often disconnected entities creates coordination challenges. This fragmentation leads to inconsistencies in implementing sustainable practices and hinders the development of a cohesive approach to sustainability. Project delivery methods also play a crucial role in adopting sustainable practices. Traditional project delivery methods often prioritise cost and time over sustainability, leading to decisions that favour short-term gains over long-term benefits. Gambatese and Hallowell (2011) argue that adopting integrated project delivery methods that emphasise collaboration and sustainability can help overcome this barrier. Babalola and Harinarain (2024) also supported the idea that efficient project delivery requires teamwork, support, adequate communication, and collaboration, especially in sustainable construction. Excessive subcontracting of construction works also hinders the consistent implementation of sustainable practices. Eze et al. (2019) highlight that subcontracting can lead to a lack of accountability and control over the quality and sustainability of the work performed. Ensuring subcontractors are aligned with the organisation’s sustainability goals and standards is crucial for successfully adopting IBM. Therefore, organisational-related barriers significantly impact the adoption of sustainable construction practices in Nigeria. Addressing these barriers requires various approaches, including strong leadership commitment, effective change management, improved industry coordination, adoption of sustainable project delivery methods, managing risks associated with innovation, and ensuring accountability in subcontracting practices. By tackling these internal challenges, the construction industry in Nigeria can move towards more sustainable and innovative building practices.

5.1.4 Component 4: awareness and market-related barriers

The fourth principal component is characterised by six significant factors loading on it, explaining approximately 3.6% of the total variance. These barriers encompass a lack of awareness and knowledge (BA1), lack of public interest and buyers' demand (BA9), cost and economic viability (BA3), characteristics of the construction industry such as its project-based nature and price-based competition (BA5), passive culture (BA7), and the learning/training period required for adopting innovative materials (BA13). Consequently, this component is called “awareness and market-related barriers” due to its direct association with barriers related to awareness, knowledge, and market conditions. These factors shed light on the challenges and obstacles associated with awareness and market dynamics that hinder the adoption of IBM for SC.

A primary barrier is the lack of awareness and knowledge about sustainable construction practices and the benefits of using IBM. This finding aligns with the assertion made by Addy et al. (2021) and Nikyema and Blouin (2020) that in Sub-Saharan Africa, barriers to sustainable development include a lack of knowledge and awareness and an excessive focus on capital costs rather than operating costs. Many stakeholders, including construction professionals and the general public, are not adequately informed about the advantages of sustainable materials (Nikyema and Blouin, 2020). This lack of awareness hampers the willingness to adopt new technologies and practices essential for sustainability. Studies have shown that increasing awareness and providing education about sustainable construction can significantly influence the adoption rates of innovative materials (Ifije and Aigbavboa, 2020).

Market-related barriers also impact stakeholders' adoption and incorporation of IBM. This study has identified IBM’s unavailability as a significant market-related barrier in the Nigerian construction industry. This scarcity leads to a high dependence on traditional or imported building materials (Nwogu and Emedosi, 2024). Since each construction project has unique requirements, adopting suitable materials is crucial. Therefore, promoting IBM’s local production and implementation in Nigeria is essential. Nigeria requires knowledge and technology tailored to its natural resources rather than relying on other developing countries (Dahiru et al., 2014). Conventional building materials like earth and timber, once common before colonial times, have fallen out of favour (Nwogu and Emedosi, 2024). Abera (2024) suggests that education and awareness initiatives are essential for informing architects, engineers, contractors, and clients about the benefits of using eco-friendly construction materials. Furthermore, low market demand and a lack of client interest are significant issues, as highlighted in the literature by Hwang and Tan (2012) and Hwang and Ng (2013). Financial challenges and additional costs are reported to hinder the achievement of SC in building projects in Nigeria (Aghimien et al., 2018; Akadiri, 2015). Financial factors contribute to the low adoption of IBM and the underutilisation of SC markets in Nigeria and other developing nations (Eze et al., 2021).

5.1.5 Component 5: resistance and stakeholder engagement related barriers

The final principal component extracted consists of six significant factors, explaining approximately 3.3% of the total variance. These six barriers include unwillingness to change (BA31), lack of qualified staff (BA23), the status quo in rules and regulations (BA11), poor coordination and communication among project participants (BA27), lack of end-user involvement (BA19), and the lack of local authority and government involvement (BA8). As a result, this component is named “resistance and stakeholder engagement-related barriers” because it focuses on obstacles primarily related to resistance to change and challenges associated with engaging stakeholders. These factors emphasise the difficulties faced in overcoming resistance, effectively engaging stakeholders, and promoting collaboration in adopting IBM for SC.

Resistance from critical stakeholders in the construction industry towards innovative approaches, techniques, and materials poses a significant barrier to adopting innovative, green, and sustainable building materials (Aghimien et al., 2019; Marsh et al., 2020; Umar et al., 2021). Cultural norms and values often play a significant role in accepting new ideas, and the construction industry has been operating in a certain way for a long time, making it challenging to adopt changes (Ametepey et al., 2015; Djokoto et al., 2014). This resistance, combined with a reliance on existing methods and materials, hinders the achievement of SC (Eze et al., 2023). This has been seen in developing countries like Nigeria (Davies and Davies, 2017). Consequently, adopting IBM in Nigeria and other developing nations faces significant challenges (Akadiri, 2015). To promote sustainability in the built environment and upgrade existing structures, it is crucial for construction stakeholders, including clients and experts, to embrace change and accept new approaches and materials for project delivery. Raising awareness and disseminating information about the benefits of incorporating IBM can help overcome resistance, as knowledge of the advantages tends to generate interest and support for their utilisation (Eze et al., 2021). For sustainable construction to progress, clients, construction professionals, and other industry stakeholders must be more receptive to new approaches and materials in their projects (Eze et al., 2023). Figure 2 illustrates the five components of barriers to IBM.

6. Implication of study

The study offers significant theoretical, social, and practical implications.

6.1 Theoretical implications

This study empirically examines barriers to adopting innovative building materials (IBM) for sustainable construction practices in the Nigerian construction industry (NCI). By identifying and categorising the barriers to adopting innovative building materials, the study enhances the understanding of the complex challenges facing sustainable construction in Nigeria. This detailed categorisation helps refine existing theoretical frameworks by providing a more detailed perspective on the various dimensions of these barriers. Identifying resource and policy-related barriers emphasises the importance of a supportive institutional and regulatory environment. This finding shows the need for comprehensive policies to facilitate the allocating of resources necessary for adopting IBM in NCI. By detailing seven variables within this component, the study highlights the intricate interplay of funding, policy enforcement, industry regulations and codes, and incentives, thereby contributing to a deeper theoretical understanding of policy frameworks and resource management in fostering innovation. The component dealing with perception and cultural-related barriers advances the theoretical perspective on the role of societal attitudes and cultural norms in IBM adoption. The six variables identified in this component suggest that societal resistance to change and entrenched cultural preferences significantly impact the acceptance of IBM in NCI. This calls for expanding theoretical models to include cultural and perceptual dynamics, recognising that technical and economic factors alone are insufficient for driving sustainable practices. Organisational barriers shed light on the internal challenges within NCI firms, highlighting issues such as lack of top management commitment, employees' resistance, the fragmented nature of the construction industry, project delivery methods, excessive subcontracting of construction works, and risk of failure. The six variables identified within this component provide a theoretical basis for exploring organisational behaviour and change management in the NCI. This component suggests the need for theoretical models considering internal organisational dynamics and the importance of fostering a culture of innovation. Awareness and market-related barriers enhance theoretical frameworks on market dynamics and consumer behaviour. The six variables in this component highlight the critical role of information dissemination and market visibility in adopting innovative building materials. This finding suggests that theoretical models should incorporate the importance of awareness campaigns and marketing strategies in promoting innovation for sustainable construction practices. Finally, the component addressing resistance and stakeholder engagement-related barriers emphasises the significance of effective stakeholder management in the adoption process. The six variables identified within this component provide a theoretical foundation for understanding resistance from various stakeholders and the necessity for engagement strategies that foster collaboration and reduce barriers to IBM in NCI.

6.2 Social implications

The findings of this study have profound implications for addressing cultural and perceptual barriers to IBM for sustainable construction practices. The identification of perception and cultural-related barriers and awareness and market-related barriers suggests that societal attitudes and cultural norms play a critical role in accepting innovative building materials in the Nigerian construction industry (NCI). This implies a need for educational and awareness programmes to shift public perception and increase societal acceptance of sustainable construction practices. By highlighting these barriers, the study underscores the importance of cultural change and the role of societal readiness in adopting sustainable construction practices.

6.3 Practical implications

From a practical perspective, the study offers valuable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and construction companies. Understanding that resource and policy-related barriers are significant implies a need for stronger policy frameworks and better resource allocation to support the adoption of IBM. Policymakers and the Nigerian government can use these findings to design targeted frameworks that address these barriers, promoting sustainable construction practices in the Nigerian construction industry (NCI). Identifying perception and cultural-related barriers suggests that actionable efforts should be made to change societal attitudes and perceptions of the building owners, construction professionals and stakeholders towards IBM. Educational campaigns, training and awareness programmes could be effective in this regard, helping to shift cultural norms and increase acceptance of sustainable construction methods. For construction companies, recognising organisational-related barriers means that internal changes are necessary. These should include investing in employee training, improving organisational processes, and fostering a culture that supports innovative and sustainable practices. Similarly, addressing awareness and market-related barriers would require companies to enhance their marketing strategies and increase public awareness about the benefits and availability of IBM. Finally, understanding the importance of resistance and stakeholder engagement-related barriers suggests better NCI management and engagement practices. By actively involving stakeholders in decision-making and addressing their concerns, companies can reduce resistance and facilitate smoother adoption of innovative materials.

7. Conclusion and recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, much more effort has to be made to increase the understanding and adoption of innovative building materials (IBM) in the building construction industry. This study established that these IBM-related barriers are peculiar to Nigeria and that these barriers are responsible for their low adoption and application in the Nigerian construction industry. The contribution of built environment professionals, building owners, professional bodies and policymakers (government) will go a long way in limiting or eradicating these barriers and promoting their adoption and application. In addition, building and construction professionals also need to be willing to learn and adopt IBM for sustainable construction (SC) to remain relevant and compete with professionals in the construction industry globally. The findings on the strategies needed and recommended to promote the successful adoption of IBM in the construction industry: Owner/client support, appraisal of building code and establishment of sustainable building code, provision of sustainable materials selection criteria and mandatory governmental policies and regulations encouraging the use of IBM. With an emphasis on government and professional bodies’ support in the actualisation of IBM adoption in the countries and the readiness of the professionals to take charge of the innovation. Finally, this study affirms that the extent to which IBM is used for SC in Nigeria still needs to be improved. There is a need to advocate sufficient training for the built environment professionals and to encourage educational institutions to incorporate sustainable practice in their curricula. This will improve the utilisation of IBM adoption. By promoting the use of IBM, the construction industry in Nigeria has the potential to contribute to the country’s sustainable development.

Based on the findings of this study, several key recommendations are proposed. The Nigerian government can effectively address the identified “resource and policy-related barriers” by developing and implementing a clear policy promoting the use of green/ innovative /sustainable building materials. This recommendation transcends the local context, offering a model for other countries to consider, thereby contributing to a global shift towards sustainable construction practices by addressing “perceptions and cultural-related barriers” locally, fostering a positive view of sustainable concepts and overcoming cultural aversions. Recognising and addressing these barriers creates a conducive environment for IBM adoption in Nigeria and holds broader implications globally, promoting innovation and change in construction practices worldwide. The “organisational-related barriers” underscore the need for a supportive organisational culture and stakeholder buy-in in Nigeria. These insights can guide organisations globally in overcoming internal challenges and promoting environments conducive to adopting sustainable practices, contributing to international efforts for a more resilient construction industry. Addressing “awareness and market-related barriers” is essential for creating market demand and fostering a supportive market environment for IBM adoption in Nigeria. This insight has broader implications globally, guiding stakeholders worldwide in fostering informed and receptive markets, thereby facilitating the broader adoption of sustainable construction practices. Finally, overcoming “resistance and stakeholder engagement-related barriers” is crucial for successful IBM adoption in Nigeria. Addressing these barriers has implications beyond national borders, offering a blueprint for creating engaged and cooperative environments globally and promoting the widespread adoption of sustainable construction practices.

8. Limitation of study and future research opportunities

This study offers vital knowledge into the barriers to IBM adoption in Nigeria’s construction industry (NCI). Its findings empower policymakers and stakeholders to devise strategic solutions for sustainable practices. Addressing the components of barriers to IBM, the study lays the foundation for adopting IBM and sustainable practices, leading to reduced carbon footprints and resource conservation in the NCI. The study has certain limitations that should be acknowledged. Firstly, the study’s scope is limited to construction professionals in Lagos State. Secondly, it is crucial to acknowledge that the importance of different barriers can vary significantly across different construction projects. The findings of this research might not be universally applicable to all building projects. Thirdly, the use of purposive sampling may introduce selection bias, as participants are chosen based on specific criteria rather than random selection. This method can limit the generalizability of the findings to a broader population, as the sample may only partially represent some relevant groups. Therefore, future research should involve a wider range of stakeholders and consider diverse construction project types and geographic locations to broaden its applicability. Despite its limitations, this study offers a foundational understanding of the barriers IBM faces to NCI. Its findings empower stakeholders to address these challenges proactively and deepen this knowledge; future research should explore the root causes of these barriers through qualitative methods and assess the effectiveness of potential solutions through pilot projects, exemplary projects, and policy evaluations.

Figures

Figure 1

Scree plot of the barriers affecting the adoption of IBM

Figure 2

Five components of barriers to IBM

Table 1

Summary of the barriers to the adoption of IBM

Code	Barriers	Description	References
BA1	Lack of awareness and knowledge	The insufficient understanding and knowledge of sustainable practices among industry professionals, hindering their effective implementation	Abidin (2010), Owolabi and Faleye (2019), Eze et al. (2019), Ozorhon et al. (2010), Nikyema and Blouin (2020), Abisuga and Oyekanmi (2014), Hwang and Tan (2012), Hwang and Ng (2013), Ayarkwa et al. (2022)
BA2	Lack of top management commitment	The absence of strong support and commitment from top stakeholders, resulting in inadequate resources and attention to sustainability initiatives	Abidin (2010), Eze et al. (2019), Abisuga and Oyekanmi (2014)
BA3	Cost and economic viability	The perception that IBMs have higher upfront costs, making them seem less financially practical in the short term	Abidin (2010), Owolabi and Faleye (2019), Abisuga and Oyekanmi (2014)
BA4	Lack of industry regulations and codes	There is an absence of strict industry standards and regulations that enforce the adoption of IBM.	Ozorhon et al. (2010), Gambatese and Hallowell (2011)
BA5	Characteristics of the construction industry: Project-based nature and Price-based competition	The inherent focus on individual projects and competitive pricing in the construction industry can deprioritise sustainability and IBM.	Ozorhon et al. (2010), Gambatese and Hallowell (2011)
BA6	Risk of failure	The perceived or actual risk of unsuccessful outcomes when implementing IBM, leading to reluctance in adoption	Gambatese and Hallowell (2011)
BA7	Passive culture	An organisational culture that is resistant to change, thereby impeding the adoption of new, sustainable practices like IBM.	Abidin (2010), Owolabi and Faleye (2019)
BA8	Lack of local authority and government involvement	The insufficient participation and support from local authorities and governments, which weakens the promotion and enforcement of sustainable practices	Abidin (2010), Ozorhon et al. (2010), Gambatese and Hallowell (2011), Nikyema and Blouin (2020), Abisuga and Oyekanmi (2014), Hwang and Tan (2012), Hwang and Ng (2013)
BA9	Lack of public interest and buyers’ demand	The low level of interest and demand for IBM from the public and buyers, reducing the incentive for construction companies to adopt these materials	Abidin (2010), Abisuga and Oyekanmi (2014), Hwang and Tan (2012), Hwang and Ng (2013)
BA10	Employees’ resistance	The reluctance of employees to adapt to IBM, particularly when they are not convinced of the benefits or lack proper training	Ozorhon et al. (2010)
BA11	Status quo in rules and regulations	The preference for existing rules and regulations that favor traditional construction methods, making sustainable practices harder to implement	Abidin (2010), Owolabi and Faleye (2019), Ozorhon et al. (2010), Gambatese and Hallowell (2011)
BA12	Availability of green/ innovative/ sustainable building materials	The limited availability of environmentally friendly materials, which restricts options for sustainable construction	Abidin (2010), Dzokoto and Dadzie (2013), Nikyema and Blouin (2020), Abisuga and Oyekanmi (2014)
BA13	Learning/training period	The time and resources required to train and educate staff in sustainable practices like IBM, which can act as a barrier to their adoption	Abidin (2010), Nikyema and Blouin (2020), Abisuga and Oyekanmi (2014)
BA14	Associating sustainable concepts with luxury living	The misconception that sustainability is only relevant or affordable for high-end or luxury projects, limiting its broader application	Abidin (2010)
BA15	Cultural aversion to change	The resistance to change is rooted in cultural norms, which can make the adoption of new sustainable practices like IBM more challenging	Owolabi and Faleye (2019)
BA16	Project delivery method	The use of traditional project delivery methods may not facilitate the collaboration and flexibility needed for IBM for sustainable construction	Ozorhon et al. (2010), Gambatese and Hallowell (2011)
BA17	The perception that the industry is doing well without it	The belief that the construction industry is already successful without sustainable practices like IBM reduces the motivation for change	Owolabi and Faleye (2019), Ozorhon et al. (2010)
BA18	Poor funding for research and development, training and education	The lack of adequate financial investment in the research, development, and education necessary for advancing sustainable practices	Owolabi and Faleye (2019), Eze et al. (2019), Ozorhon et al. (2010), Nikyema and Blouin (2020), Abisuga and Oyekanmi (2014), Hwang and Tan (2012), Hwang and Ng (2013), Ayarkwa et al. (2022)
BA19	Lack of end-user involvement	Failure to involve the final users/clients/building users in a building’s design and development leads to unsatisfactory outcomes in sustainable projects	Owolabi and Faleye (2019), Eze et al. (2019), Ozorhon et al. (2010), Abisuga and Oyekanmi (2014)
BA20	Poor technical knowhow	The deficit of technical expertise and skills required to effectively implement and manage IBM for sustainable construction practices	Owolabi and Faleye (2019), Eze et al. (2019), Gambatese and Hallowell (2011), Abisuga and Oyekanmi (2014)
BA21	Temporary nature of construction (one-off construction industry)	The transitory and one-time nature of construction projects in Nigeria complicates the establishment of long-term sustainable practices	Owolabi and Faleye (2019), Eze et al. (2019), Gambatese and Hallowell (2011)
BA22	Fragmented nature of construction	The divided and segmented structure of the Nigerian construction industry, leading to poor communication and coordination, which hinders sustainability efforts	Owolabi and Faleye (2019), Eze et al. (2019), Ozorhon et al. (2010), Gambatese and Hallowell (2011)
BA23	Lack of qualified staff	The shortage of personnel with the necessary qualifications and expertise to support IBM for sustainable building practices	Eze et al. (2019), Ozorhon et al. (2010), Nikyema and Blouin (2020), Abisuga and Oyekanmi (2014), Hwang and Tan (2012), Hwang and Ng (2013)
BA24	Lack of government policy	Strong government policies that mandate or incentivise sustainable practices in the construction industry are absent	Eze et al. (2019)
BA25	Poor innovation motivators in an organisation	There is a lack of incentives and motivation within a construction organisation to pursue and implement innovative sustainable technologies and practices	Eze et al. (2019)
BA26	Excessive subcontracting of construction works	The practice of subcontracting too much of the construction work can lead to a loss of control over implementing IBM for sustainable practices	Eze et al. (2019)
BA27	Poor coordination and communication among project participants	The lack of effective communication and coordination among the various stakeholders in a construction project undermines the success of sustainable practices	Eze et al. (2019), Gambatese and Hallowell (2011), Hwang and Tan (2012), Hwang and Ng (2013), Ayarkwa et al. (2022)
BA28	Lack of clear benefits	IBM’s unclear or unquantified advantages make stakeholders hesitant to adopt them	Owolabi and Faleye (2019), Ozorhon et al. (2010), Gambatese and Hallowell (2011), Nikyema and Blouin (2020), Hwang and Tan (2012), Hwang and Ng (2013)
BA29	Lack of sustainability measurement tools	There is an absence of tools and methods to measure the effectiveness and impact of IBM on construction projects	Dzokoto and Dadzie (2013)
BA30	Lack of exemplar demonstration projects	There is a lack of successful, visible projects demonstrating IBM’s benefits and feasibility for sustainable construction practices	Dzokoto and Dadzie (2013)
BA31	Unwillingness to change	Resistance to adopting new methods or practices, even when there is clear evidence that sustainable alternatives are beneficial	Eze et al. (2019), Ozorhon et al. (2010), Gambatese and Hallowell (2011)

Source(s): Authors’ own work

Table 2

Significance level based on RII rating

RII values	Significance level (Ahmed et al., 2020)	Significance level for the study
0.81 to 1	High (H)	Very Critical (VC)
0.61 to 0.8	High-medium (HM)	Critical (C)
0.41 to 0.6	Medium (M)	Average (A)
0.21 to 0.4	Medium-low (ML)	Less Critical (LC)
0 to 0.2	Low (L)	Not Critical (NC)

Source(s): Ahmed et al. (2020)

Table 3

KMO and Bartlett’s test

KMO and Bartlett’s test
Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin Measure of Sampling Adequacy		0.908
Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity	Approx. Chi-Square	6863.311
	df	465
	Sig	0.000

Table 4

Results of the factor analysis and relative importance index for the barriers of IBM in the Nigerian construction industry

Group naming	Code	Barriers of IBM	Factor loading	Rank by category	RII	RII ranking	Criticality level
Component 1
Resource and Policy related barriers	BA12	Availability of green/ innovative/ sustainable building materials	0.788	1st	0.8674	10th	VC
	BA28	Lack of clear benefits	0.785	2nd	0.8702	9th	VC
	BA18	Poor funding for research and development, training and education	0.783	3rd	0.8709	8th	VC
	BA24	Lack of government policy	0.757	4th	0.8617	15th	VC
	BA20	Poor technical knowhow	0.739	5th	0.8567	16th	VC
	BA4	Lack of industry regulations and codes	0.623	6th	0.8475	19th	VC
	BA30	Lack of exemplar demonstration projects	0.616	7th	0.8454	2nd	VC
Component 2
Perception and Cultural related barriers	BA14	Associating sustainable concepts with luxury living	0.813	1st	0.8411	23rd	VC
	BA21	Temporary nature of construction (one-off construction industry)	0.782	2nd	0.8433	22nd	VC
	BA29	Lack of sustainability measurement tools	0.704	3rd	0.8631	13th	VC
	BA25	Poor innovation motivators in an organisation	0.702	4th	0.8631	14th	VC
	BA17	The perception that the industry is doing well without it	0.690	5th	0.8652	12th	VC
	BA15	Cultural aversion to change	0.504	6th	0.8496	18th	VC
Component 3
Organisational related barriers	BA6	Risk of failure	0.859	1st	0.8135	30th	VC
	BA2	Lack of top management commitment	0.690	2nd	0.8219	29th	VC
	BA10	Employees’ resistance	0.668	3rd	0.8355	25th	VC
	BA22	Fragmented nature of construction	0.622	4th	0.8092	31st	C
	BA16	Project delivery method	0.583	5th	0.8269	28th	VC
	BA26	Excessive subcontracting of construction works	0.553	6th	0.8361	24th	VC
Component 4
Awareness and Market-related barriers	BA1	Lack of awareness and knowledge	0.719	1st	0.9057	1st	VC
	BA9	Lack of public interest and buyers’ demand	0.695	2nd	0.8723	7th	VC
	BA3	Cost and economic viability	0.655	3rd	0.8844	3rd	VC
	BA5	Characteristics of the construction industry: Project-based nature and Price-based competition	0.596	4th	0.8539	17th	VC
	BA7	Passive culture	0.570	5th	0.8333	26th	VC
	BA13	Learning/training period	0.538	6th	0.8865	2nd	VC
Component 5
Resistance and Stakeholder Engagement related barriers	BA31	Unwillingness to change	X	1st	0.8319	27th	VC
	BA23	Lack of qualified staff	0.706	2nd	0.8829	4th	VC
	BA11	Status quo in rules and regulations	0.675	3rd	0.8730	6th	VC
	BA27	Poor coordination and communication among project participants	0.644	4th	0.8674	11th	VC
	BA19	Lack of end-user involvement	0.535	5th	0.8766	5th	VC
	BA8	Lack of local authority and government involvement	0.475	6th	0.8454	20th	VC

Source(s): Authors’ own work