N.K. Mustaffa, S.A. Kudus and M.F.H.A. Aziz
There is a growing awareness of the dangers of climate change and global warming due to increasing energy consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions. Campus universities…
Abstract
Purpose
There is a growing awareness of the dangers of climate change and global warming due to increasing energy consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions. Campus universities are critical for implementing low-carbon development efficiently, given the large population and socio-economic activities concentrated on campus. This paper aims to explore the existing campus management initiatives and recommends holistic driving elements towards successful low-carbon campus development.
Design/methodology/approach
This study’s triangulation of information was supplemented by contributions from 116 respondents on the UiTM Shah Alam campus and eight professional interviews with stakeholders involved in low-carbon campus projects.
Findings
The study reported that low-carbon strategies had been implemented on the UiTM Shah Alam campus, with most existing programmes and activities focusing on low-hanging fruit initiatives. Moreover, the findings indicate that financial, cultural, behavioural, organisational and physical constraints are critical challenges to effectively implementing low-carbon approaches. The proposed techniques suggest that generating green funding, defining clear targets, developing standard procedures for carbon assessment and monitoring, also boosting education and outreach programmes lead to the improvement of low-carbon campus efforts.
Practical implications
The outcomes of this paper offer perspective to campus administration and community into an evaluation of current approaches and strategies for merging low-carbon systems. The effectiveness of low-carbon implementation was ensured by addressing issues concerning low-carbon uptake and fostering low-carbon improvement.
Originality/value
Besides providing a better understanding of techniques to implementing low-carbon development in Malaysia, the critical hurdles and driving factors, the output from this study adds to the existing knowledge available concerning the campus community’s existing comprehension.
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Junjie Li, Jiaying Zhang, Chunlu Liu and Xiangyun Luo
This research paper aims to establish a comprehensive framework for the barriers to CER in the construction industry, assesses the barriers' relative degrees of hindrance and…
Abstract
Purpose
This research paper aims to establish a comprehensive framework for the barriers to CER in the construction industry, assesses the barriers' relative degrees of hindrance and causal mechanisms.
Design/methodology/approach
Firstly, 26 carbon emission reduction (CER) barriers in the construction industry were identified based on a systematic literature review (SLR) and categorized into five dimensions: policy, economy, society, technology and organization (PEST + O model). Secondly, the Best–Worst Method (BWM) was used to clarify the degrees of hindrance of the CER barriers. Then, the Grey-Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (Grey-DEMATEL) was used to visualize the directional cause–result relationship network among prominent barriers. Finally, the Boston matrix model was used to propose differentiated strategies to address CER barriers in the construction industry.
Findings
The calculated centrality and causality of the prominent barriers indicated that the lack of relevant legal policies and normative guidelines, the poor binding force and enforcement of existing relevant policies, the lack of effective economic subsidies and incentives and the difficulty in the operation, transformation and upgrading of existing construction CER are the key barriers that CER needs to address first in the construction industry. Considering the order of priority and the optimal path, differentiated countermeasures are proposed to address key, driving, independent and effect barriers.
Originality/value
This study develops a BWM–Grey-DEMATEL integrated multi-criteria decision-making model. An innovative C-shaped strategic map for addressing CER barriers in the construction industry is proposed by integrating the dual dimensions of time and space. This will guide practitioners, policymakers and decision-makers in developing CER strategies.
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Verona Ramas Joseph and Nur Kamaliah Mustaffa
The demand to reduce carbon emissions has become an increasingly important social factor due to the unprecedented impacts of climate change. However, most existing publications…
Abstract
Purpose
The demand to reduce carbon emissions has become an increasingly important social factor due to the unprecedented impacts of climate change. However, most existing publications have focused on minimizing emissions during the operational phase of buildings. At the same time, there is a lack of comprehensive research conducted on carbon emissions, specifically during the construction phase. The purpose of this paper is to identify, review and classify current practices related to carbon emissions management in construction operations to gain greater insight into how to reduce and mitigate emissions and achieve more sustainable solutions.
Design/methodology/approach
This study reviewed the published literature on carbon emissions from construction. A total of 198 bibliographic records were extracted from the Scopus collection database and analyzed using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). PRISMA is used as a basis for reporting possible trends, research methods and strategies used in published literatures. A total of 99 papers related to carbon emissions in the construction operations were further reviewed and analyzed. This review paper draws on existing research and identifies current carbon management patterns in construction projects.
Findings
Data indicated an upward trend in the number of publications in carbon emissions research during the last few years, particularly in 2015, 2017 and 2019. The most significant contributions to the domain were reported from China, Europe and the USA. This paper found that most studies conduct the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) method to estimate carbon emissions. This paper found that the primary studies have focused on construction machinery and equipment emissions. The strategies such as establishing uniform standards for carbon emissions policies and regulations, equipment and logistic planning and low carbon design material will potentially impact carbon emissions reductions.
Practical implications
This paper provides information that will be beneficial for the construction industry to design and manage construction operations. It will also be of interest to those looking to reduce or manage construction emissions.
Originality/value
Although there is a diversity of current thinking related to the practical estimation and management of carbon emissions in construction projects, there is no consolidated set of keys of standardized carbon emissions management in practice. By assessing the existing paradigms of carbon assessment methods and tactics in the construction industry, this study contributed to the existing knowledge base by providing insights into current techniques in the construction sector for monitoring and mitigating emissions.
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Minh Van Nguyen, Khanh Duy Ha and Chien Thanh Phan
Reconstruction of old buildings is often necessary after prolonged usage, but these projects encounter various complexities, leading to their failure. However, there is a lack of…
Abstract
Purpose
Reconstruction of old buildings is often necessary after prolonged usage, but these projects encounter various complexities, leading to their failure. However, there is a lack of studies that focus on investigating the complexity of old building reconstruction initiatives. Thus, this study aims to examine the complexity of reconstruction projects for old buildings in Vietnamese urban areas.
Design/methodology/approach
Through a literature review and discussions with experienced practitioners, 12 significant complexity factors were identified. The study then utilized the fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) technique to analyze the interrelationships among these complexity factors.
Findings
The findings revealed intricate interdependencies among the complexity factors, visualized in a complexity map. The map highlighted the critical complexities of site compensation, clearance and the long project duration. Furthermore, a causal diagram categorized the complexity factors into net-effect and net-cause groups.
Originality/value
By examining the relationships and interactions among these factors, the study emphasizes the interconnected nature of complex systems and the influence of one factor on others. Therefore, decision-makers and stakeholders involved in reconstructing old buildings are suggested to possess a comprehensive understanding of these interdependencies to ensure effective decision-making.
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Suhaib Arogundade, Mohammed Dulaimi, Saheed Ajayi, Abdullahi Saka and Olusegun Ilori
Extant studies have discussed numerous carbon reduction drivers, but there is a dearth of holistic review and understanding of the dynamic interrelationships between the drivers…
Abstract
Purpose
Extant studies have discussed numerous carbon reduction drivers, but there is a dearth of holistic review and understanding of the dynamic interrelationships between the drivers from a system perspective. Thus, this study aims to bridge that gap.
Design/methodology/approach
The study conducted a review using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses and adopted interpretive structural modelling (ISM) to analyse and prioritise the drivers.
Findings
Eighteen drivers were identified and grouped into five, namely, policy instruments, bid-related, cost and risk, education and training, and reward and penalty drivers. The ISM revealed two hierarchical levels of the drivers with only higher cost of electricity/fuel on the higher level, making it the most important driver that could influence others.
Practical implications
The study presents an overview of decarbonisation drivers in the literature and would be of benefit to the government and stakeholders towards achieving net zero emissions in the construction industry.
Originality/value
The findings of the study present drivers of carbon reduction and prioritise and categorise them for tailored interventions within the construction sector. Also, it could serve as foundational knowledge for further study in the construction process decarbonisation research area.
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Xichen Chen, Alice Yan Chang-Richards, Tak Wing Yiu, Florence Yean Yng Ling, Antony Pelosi and Nan Yang
With growing concern about sustainable development and increased awareness of environmental issues, digital technologies (DTs) are gaining prominence and becoming a promising…
Abstract
Purpose
With growing concern about sustainable development and increased awareness of environmental issues, digital technologies (DTs) are gaining prominence and becoming a promising trend to improve productivity, sustainability and project performance in the construction industry. Nonetheless, the uptake of DTs in the construction industry has been limited and plagued with roadblocks. This study aims to identify critical barriers for construction organisations to adopt DTs and to demonstrate relationships between organisational characteristics and the perceived DTs adoption barriers.
Design/methodology/approach
This study adopted an explanatory sequential design by combining the advantages of quantitative and qualitative data. Data collection methods include literature review, a pilot study, questionnaire survey, and semi-structured interviews. Questionnaire data were analysed by using SPSS and multivariate regression technique. The interview data were processed by using content analysis to validate and supplement findings from the questionnaire.
Findings
Based on the survey and interview results, eight critical barriers were identified: the three top critical barriers are (1) “status quo industry standards”, (2) “lack of client interest” and (3) “lack of financial need/drive for using DTs”. The eight critical barriers were further classified into technical, environmental, and social dimensions to determine the major constructs that hinder DTs adoption. A theoretical framework articulating critical barriers with underlying components and root causes was also proposed. Furthermore, by using multivariate regression analysis, a model was developed to link the organisational characteristics with barriers to DTs adoption.
Practical implications
By referring to the framework and the model developed, academics, industry practitioners, and decision makers can identify pivotal areas for improvement, make informed decisions and implement remedial measures to remove the barriers to digitalisation transformation.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the literature on construction innovations by investigating barriers to DTs adoption holistically as well as perceptions of the impact of organisational attributes on these barriers. It establishes the groundwork for future empirical research into the strategic consolidation of movement of DTs adoption and diffusion.
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Atikah Shamsul Bahrin, Ahmad Rais Mohamad Mokhtar, Ariff Azly Muhamed and Veera Pandiyan Kaliani Sundram
This study aims to provide a novel approach to examining the connection between several aspects of low-carbon supply chain practices (LCSCPs), eco-innovation (EI) and the…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to provide a novel approach to examining the connection between several aspects of low-carbon supply chain practices (LCSCPs), eco-innovation (EI) and the performance of manufacturing firms in Malaysia.
Design/methodology/approach
The current study employed a quantitative research strategy, utilizing survey data collected from a sample of 120 manufacturing firms located in Malaysia. The main aim of this study was to analyze the research framework and test the proposed hypotheses.
Findings
The results of the study indicate that EI has a mediating role in the link between LCSCP and manufacturing firm performance (MFP). EI serves as a mediating factor in the association between MFP and four components of LCSCPs, specifically low-carbon product design, low-carbon process improvement, low-carbon purchasing and low-carbon logistics.
Practical implications
The results of this study hold significant potential for supply chain professionals in their endeavors to decrease carbon emissions. Practitioners can help eliminate carbon footprints (CFs) by selecting the right LCSCP techniques that support EI and MFP. When creating low-carbon management methods in supply chain management (SCM), practitioners must take into account the potential mediating role of EI.
Originality/value
To date, this work is one of the first efforts to investigate the role of EI as a mediator between LCSCP and MFP. Moreover, this research adds to the existing knowledge and improves understanding of how low-carbon development is being implemented in Malaysia, with the ultimate objective of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
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Njideka Maryclara Aguome, Nonso Izuchukwu Ewurum and Fidelis Ifeanyi Emoh
The global imperative for sustainable infrastructure management has intensified the focus on facility retrofitting as a key strategy for reducing environmental impact and…
Abstract
Purpose
The global imperative for sustainable infrastructure management has intensified the focus on facility retrofitting as a key strategy for reducing environmental impact and enhancing operational efficiency. However, the complex interplay of factors influencing stakeholders’ willingness to pay (WTP) for such interventions remains inadequately understood, impeding effective policy formulation and resource allocation. This study aims to examine the motivational factors influencing the adoption of green retrofits in Lagos, Nigeria.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used a stated preference discrete choice experiment conducted with 425 decision-makers of corporate facilities in Lagos, Nigeria. A multinomial logit model was used to compare retrofitting choice sets and a status quo option.
Findings
The study revealed that education level, reputation concerns, income, incentives and corporate social responsibility awareness significantly predicted WTP for basic heating ventilation air-conditioning, and lighting upgrades. Regulatory compliance, awareness, education, income and reputation emerged as key drivers for more comprehensive retrofits incorporating renewables.
Practical implications
The research findings, by revealing which motivators resonate strongest, offer an evidence-based roadmap that directs practitioners to look beyond price incentives and emphasize complementary non-price interventions integrated with policy. The study’s emphasis on the significance of noneconomic WTP drivers equips program administrators with actionable strategies to optimize the uptake of retrofits based on individuals’ motivational structures.
Originality/value
This is one of the very few studies that have investigated the motivational factors influencing the adoption of green facility retrofitting in emerging markets, focusing on Lagos, Nigeria.
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Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo, Mazen M. Omer, Rahimi A. Rahman and Olalekan Shamsideen Oshodi
This study aims to review the current trends in early contractor involvement (ECI) in construction project development. The review consist of the following objectives: (1…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to review the current trends in early contractor involvement (ECI) in construction project development. The review consist of the following objectives: (1) identifying the benefits of ECI on construction project development; (2) identifying the challenges of ECI in construction project development; and (3) identifying the strategies of ECI in construction project development.
Design/methodology/approach
This study systematically reviews the literature on the application of ECI in construction project development. A total of 133 related articles were identified and analyzed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method.
Findings
This review identified “improved team work/collaboration working relationship” as the top benefits of ECI in construction project development. “Cultural barrier” was identified as the top challenge of ECI in construction project development, while “contributing value engineering” and “buildability evaluation input”, were the top two strategies of ECI in construction project development.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to systematically review prior literature on ECI. As a result, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of the current state of the art and fills the literature gap. Researchers and industry professionals can use the study findings to increase the rate and benefits of implementing ECI in construction projects.
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Jianbo Zhu, Qianqian Shi, Ce Zhang, Jingfeng Yuan, Qiming Li and Xiangyu Wang
Promoting low-carbon in the construction industry is important for achieving the overall low-carbon goals. Public–private partnership is very popular in public infrastructure…
Abstract
Purpose
Promoting low-carbon in the construction industry is important for achieving the overall low-carbon goals. Public–private partnership is very popular in public infrastructure projects. However, different perceptions of low-carbon and behaviors of public and private sectors can hinder the realization of low-carbon in these projects. In order to analyze the willingness of each stakeholder to cooperate towards low-carbon goals, an evolutionary game model is constructed.
Design/methodology/approach
An evolutionary game model that considers the opportunistic behavior of the participants is developed. The evolutionary stable strategies (ESSs) under different scenarios are examined, and the factors that influence the willingness to cooperate between the government and private investors are investigated.
Findings
The results illustrate that a well-designed system of profit distribution and subsidies can enhance collaboration. Excessive subsidies have negative impact on cooperation between the two sides, because these two sides can weaken income distribution and lead to the free-riding behavior of the government. Under the situation of two ESSs, there is also an optimal revenue distribution coefficient that maximizes the probability of cooperation. With the introduction of supervision and punishment mechanism, the opportunistic behavior of private investors is effectively constrained.
Originality/value
An evolutionary game model is developed to explore the cooperation between the public sector and the private sector in the field of low-carbon construction. Based on the analysis of the model, this paper summarizes the conditions and strategies that can enable the two sectors to cooperate.