Influence of Sustainable Construction Practices Awareness Level on Extent of Usage in Abuja-Nigeria

Abstract

The construction industry has been under severe pressure in recent times to adopt
environmentally friendly approaches to gain a competitive advantage. This is a result of
failure to select durable and sustainable materials that comply with the acceptable
requirement for standards, appropriate site selection, adoption of flexible and durable
designs, proper planning and management of construction activities, and proper
commissioning of building systems and equipment before occupation. This study,
therefore, is on the influence of sustainable construction practices awareness level on
the extent of usage in Abuja – Nigeria. The study elicited data from construction
professionals in Abuja-Nigeria using structured questionnaires. Based on the awareness
level, managing the site for an improved environment and smart homes had mean score
values of 2.23 and 2.45 respectively. In a related development, the results of the extent
of usage indicated that cost efficiency and smart homes had mean score values of 2.17
and 2.97 respectively. The paired t-test showed that there was no statistically significant
difference in the level of awareness and the extent of usage of sustainable construction
practices in the study area. Therefore, it was concluded that the use of the sustainable
practice is influenced by prior knowledge and education in terms of awareness of the
existence of such practices. Hence, there is a need for proper sensitization of sustainable
construction practices on their importance and necessity to humans and the
environment