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Article
Publication date: 18 February 2022

De-Graft Owusu-Manu, Prosper Babon-Ayeng, Ernest Kissi, David J. Edwards, Derek Okyere-Antwi and Hatem Elgohary

Construction firms worldwide are increasingly taking pragmatic steps towards addressing environmental problems arising from their activities. Nonetheless, there is a paucity of…

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Abstract

Purpose

Construction firms worldwide are increasingly taking pragmatic steps towards addressing environmental problems arising from their activities. Nonetheless, there is a paucity of studies focused on the nexus between green construction and environmental performance. Hence, this study aims to examine the linkages between green construction practice and environmental performance.

Design/methodology/approach

An extensive literature review was conducted to identify the relevant dimensions of green construction practice and indicators for measuring environmental performance. Variables collated were then subjected to pre-assessment and pre-testing processes. The pre-assessment was used as a preliminary content validation where experts assessed the various dimensions of green construction practice and indicators for measuring environmental performance proposed and determine if indeed the variables represent what the study set out to measure. Data were collected from construction professionals within the Ghana's Kumasi Metropolis. The sample size for the study was 100 experts in sustainable construction methods in the construction industry. A total of 63 responses were received out of the 100 target respondents, accounting for a 63% response rate. Data generated was analysed using mean score analysis and one-sample t-test to determine the level of significance of the various green construction practices and indicators for measuring environmental performance. A Pearson correlation analysis was undertaken to ascertain the relationships that exist among the various dimensions of green construction practice and indicators for measuring environmental performance. Finally, multiple linear regression analysis was utilised to ascertain the effect of the adoption of green construction practice on environmental performance.

Findings

The results indicate that all the green construction practices and the indicators of environmental performance identified from the literature were significant at p = 0.05. The study's findings revealed that energy management is the most significant construct of green construction practice followed by storm-water management. Furthermore, the analysis showed that the preservation of water is the most significant environmental performance indicator followed by sanitation. The regression model developed also explained that 75% of the variations in environmental performance are explained by green construction practice.

Research limitations/implications

Notwithstanding the study's achievements, one major limitation the research faced was the relatively small sample size.

Practical implications

This study provides sufficient data for construction professionals to identify the various green construction practices that could enhance environmental performance. The study's results showed that environmental performance could be improved by adopting the key green construction practices identified in this study. Pragmatic directions are also provided to stakeholders in the construction industry to take a critical look at the environmental performance indicators that were significant.

Originality/value

This pioneering research attempts to investigate the linkages between green construction practice and environmental performance in Ghana. Key results provide a critical evidential influence of green construction on environmental performance and make a crucial contribution to the current body of knowledge.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. 12 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

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Article
Publication date: 30 October 2018

De-Graft Owusu-Manu, David John Edwards, A.S. Kukah, Erika Anneli Parn, Hatem El-Gohary and M. Reza Hosseini

Failures of public–private partnership (PPP) projects are often ascribed to the agency problem, which arise under conditions of inadequate and asymmetric information when a…

634

Abstract

Purpose

Failures of public–private partnership (PPP) projects are often ascribed to the agency problem, which arise under conditions of inadequate and asymmetric information when a principal (the client) hires an agent (the contractor). This paper aims to identify the causes and effects of moral hazard and adverse selection on PPP construction projects using a synthesis of extant literature (to determine key variables) and analysis of survey questionnaire data collected.

Design/methodology/approach

Mean score ranking was used to rank the causes and effects of moral hazard and adverse selection problems in PPP construction projects. One sample t-test was conducted to establish the relative significance of these variables.

Findings

Effort dimensions (which are not verifiable), low transfer of risk, lack of accurate information about project conditions, wrong party chosen to execute project and renegotiation of contracts were the most significant causes of moral hazard and adverse selection problems in PPP construction projects. In addition, reduction of competition, high transaction costs, consequences on profitability of project, siphoning of funds and negative implications on enforceability of contract were the most significant effects of moral hazard and adverse selection problems in PPP construction projects.

Practical implications

Application of these findings will help mitigating moral hazard and adverse selection problems occurring when undertaking PPP construction projects.

Originality/value

Research findings provide guidance to construction stakeholders in the PPP sector on the different causes and effects of adverse selection and moral hazard. This pioneering study is the first to conduct an empirical assessment of the causes and effects of moral hazard and adverse selection of PPP construction projects in a developing country.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, vol. 16 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

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Article
Publication date: 15 June 2018

De-Graft Owusu-Manu, A.S. Kukah, David John Edwards, Erika Anneli Pärn, Hatem El-Gohary and Clinton Aigbavboa

The purpose of this paper was to assess the causal relationship(s) between moral hazard and adverse selection of public–private partnership (PPP) construction projects. Structural…

510

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to assess the causal relationship(s) between moral hazard and adverse selection of public–private partnership (PPP) construction projects. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to explore the cause and effect relationship between moral hazard and adverse selection problems in PPP construction projects in Ghana. The study produced a framework to predict, estimate and depict the complex causal relationships (i.e. the directionality) between moral hazard and adverse selection.

Design/methodology/approach

To test the proposed framework, a quantitative methodology was used, in which, data were collected using research questionnaires that targeted a sample of 280 PPP stakeholders in Ghana. In total, 210 useable questionnaires were retrieved, representing a response rate of 75 per cent.

Findings

The interrelationships between the eight causes and the nine effects of moral hazard and adverse selection were established using the model. The tested framework showed the degree of association and isolation of the unobserved variables on the indicator factors. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to evaluate the fit of items to latent constructs. Because the fit of each model was good and the item loadings were adequate, it was assumed that the indicators of the different variables factors were fitting. Furthermore, a diagnostic fit analysis was conducted using the robust maximum likelihood method to test the statistical significance of the parameter estimates.

Practical implications

This novel research is one of the few studies investigating the causal relationships between moral hazard and adverse selection of PPP construction projects. The research concluded with future studies that seek to validate the model developed in other countries and/or other industries.

Originality/value

The research findings will serve as a guide for construction stakeholders in the PPP sector on the causes and effects of adverse selection and moral hazard and how to mitigate these.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, vol. 16 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

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Article
Publication date: 18 November 2013

Hatem El-Gohary, David Edwards, Riyad Eid and Juanling Huang

The purpose of this paper is to add to the accumulative knowledge in the field through investigating the different factors affecting the choice of export entry mode by Egyptian…

2321

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to add to the accumulative knowledge in the field through investigating the different factors affecting the choice of export entry mode by Egyptian SMEs. An organised examination of the literature related to export entry modes by SMEs is discussed to provide and develop a clear understanding about the different factors affecting the choice of export entry mode by Egyptian SMEs. Such investigation will help in achieving a deep and reflective understanding of current exporting practises by Egyptian SMEs. The findings indicated that there is very few research studies in the literature related to the choice of export entry mode in developing countries in general and there was no published studies related to the choice of export entry mode in Egypt.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the published literature related to choice of export entry mode by SMEs in general and to SMEs in developing countries (e.g. Egypt) in particular. Based on this review and the results of two focus groups, the paper validates a conceptual model utilising a positivist research philosophy with a quantitative approach, in which quantitative data are collected based on survey strategy through questionnaires to address different levels of the study.

Findings

The findings showed that Egyptian SMEs owners, marketing and sales managers have a limited knowledge in relation to the different available export entry modes. The findings also illustrated that SME internal factors, local market factors and target market factors have different impacts on the choice of export entry mode and that only small number of Egyptian SMEs conducted an effective and efficient export activities.

Research limitations/implications

The paper will provide great benefits for entrepreneurs, policy makers, practitioners, researchers and educators though providing a clearer view and deep understanding for the issues related to different factors affecting the choice of export entry mode by Egyptian SMEs.

Originality/value

The paper adds to the extremely limited number of empirical studies that has been conducted to investigate different factors affecting the choice of export entry mode by Egyptian and Developing Economies SMEs. Depending on this research, researchers and scholars in the field can have a clearer view to set their attitude towards suitable future research studies which in turn will contribute to the related accumulated knowledge in the field.

Details

Journal of Economic and Administrative Sciences, vol. 29 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2054-6238

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Article
Publication date: 18 May 2015

Abd El-Shafey I Ahmed, John N Hay and Hatem El-Gohary

Undoubtedly, saving the environment and avoiding environmental damage is one of the major challenges facing any government. The purpose of this paper is to add to the accumulative…

344

Abstract

Purpose

Undoubtedly, saving the environment and avoiding environmental damage is one of the major challenges facing any government. The purpose of this paper is to add to the accumulative knowledge in the field through investigating the different factors affecting the adoption of newly developed water filters by Egyptian farmers to reduce the massive air pollution resulting from burning rice straw. Such investigation will help in achieving a deep and reflective understanding of current adoption practises by Egyptian farmers.

Design/methodology/approach

To understand the different factors that might have an impact on the adoption of newly developed water filters by Egyptians, a survey research strategy as well as a focus groups mechanism were conducted employing triangulation methodology in which quantitative and qualitative data were collected based on a post-positives approach. This quantitative study was performed in five local councils in Al-Sharqiyah Governorate, one of the biggest governorates in rice production in Egypt, based on a questionnaire built on some parameters related to Egyptian farmers’ perceptions of clean water. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences to analyse the collected data and evaluate the ability to promote the newly developed filters.

Findings

The findings indicated that the adoption of water filters by Egyptian farmers is affected by two groups of factors, namely personal factors and water-related factors. With regard to this, it was found that age, cost, farmers’ attitudes towards using water filters, farmers’ trust in the water pipes systems, and the usefulness of the filters have a positive impact on water filters adoption by Egyptian farmers. The findings also indicate that water filters adoption by Egyptian farmers has a positive impact on a farmer’s intention to buy a water filter and their intention to share a water filter with others.

Research limitations/implications

The paper will provide great benefits for entrepreneurs, policy makers, practitioners, and researchers though providing a clearer view and deep understanding for the issues related to different factors affecting the adoption of newly developed water filters by Egyptian farmers.

Originality/value

This research adds to the relatively limited empirical research that has been conducted on water management in south Mediterranean counties. Moreover, the findings and results of this study will provide great assistance and benefit to business owners, practitioners and governmental agencies concerned with water management in south Mediterranean countries since it reveals a number of dynamics and potential scenarios that should be taken into consideration.

Details

Journal of Economic and Administrative Sciences, vol. 31 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2054-6238

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 2 May 2017

Hatem E. Gaffer, Mohamed R. Elgohary, Hassan Ali Etman and Saad Shaaban

The purpose of this paper was to synthesize novel antibacterial reactive dyes for dyeing cotton fabrics.

214

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to synthesize novel antibacterial reactive dyes for dyeing cotton fabrics.

Design/methodology/approach

Four synthetic novel antibacterial reactive dyes based on sulfonamide (D1-D4) have been synthesized by the coupling reaction of sulfonamide diazonium salt with sulfonamido-cyanurated 7-amino-4-hydroxynaphthalene-2-sulfonic acid “j-acid”. The chemical structure of the synthesized dyes was secured by their spectral data [infra red (IR) and proton Nuclear magnetic Resonance (1HNMR)].

Findings

The prepared reactive dyes (D1-D4) were applied to cotton fabrics. Optimum conditions of the dying samples at sodium sulfate 100 g/l, liquor ratio (L.R.) 1:10, sodium carbonate 20 g/l at 80°C (D1, D2 and D4), 60°C (D3 for 60 min) were investigated. The fastness properties toward washing, perspiration, rubbing and light were evaluated. Dyed fabrics showed good light fastness property and good to very good washing and perspiration fastness properties according to the gray scale. Antimicrobial activities for synthesized dyes showed excellent activity against gram-negative organisms such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus mirabilis faecalis, whereas very good activity against gram-positive organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis with respect to the standard drugs ampicillin and chloramphenicol.

Originality/value

The principle advantages in this study were that the synthesis of novel synthesized dyes by introducing bisulfonamide-based moieties to increase the antimicrobial activity of the cellulose fabrics could be used as a medical textile, short reaction time and reaction procedure conducted in few steps, the work up is convenient and thus the starting material can be easily prepared.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 46 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 25 February 2020

Hatem E. Gaffer and Ismail I. Althagafi

The purpose of this paper is to synthesize some new azobenzene dyestuffs clubbed with thiazolidinone moiety and their solicitation in dyeing polyester fabrics representing their…

218

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to synthesize some new azobenzene dyestuffs clubbed with thiazolidinone moiety and their solicitation in dyeing polyester fabrics representing their antibacterial evaluation.

Design/methodology/approach

Herein, the authors report the synthesis of new thiazolidinone moiety after the coupling of diazotized 4-aminoacetophenone with resorcinol. The newly synthesized dyes were characterized by IR, elemental analysis, mass spectroscopy and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectral studies. The characteristics of dyeing of these dyestuffs were evaluated at optimum conditions. Concurrent with dyeing of polyester fabric for synthesized dyes with their antibacterial activity was estimated. Antimicrobial activity of the dyed fabrics at different concentrations was evaluated against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

Findings

Synthesized azobenzene dyestuffs clubbed with thiazolidinone dyes were applied on polyester fabrics. It was remarked that the modified dyes exhibited better colourfastness properties. Furthermore, the synthesized dyes revealed antimicrobial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

Research limitations/implications

The synthesized azobenzene dyes for polyester dyeing were not bore earlier.

Practical implications

The azobenzene dyes were accountable for giving improved colourfastness properties on polyester fabrics.

Social implications

The synthesized azobenzene derivatives are sensibly expensive and applicable dyes accompanied with good antimicrobial and anticancer activities.

Originality/value

A common process could be affording textiles of colour and antibacterial assets. The newly synthesized dyes containing thiazolidinone moieties with azobenzene coupler showed interesting disperse colourant for polyester with good antibacterial activity.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 49 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

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