Evaluating the criteria for selecting green building materials in Nigeria’s construction industry: a case study of Anambra state

Ekwelem Okechukwu¹, Asodike Nkiru Chigemezu² & Iyamu Osafanmen Victor³

¹University of Nigeria Nsukka

²Department of Building Technology, Federal Polytechnic Oko

³Federal College of Education, (Technical), Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the criteria for selecting green building materials in the construction industry in Anambra State, Nigeria. The research involved 312 construction professionals, including Architects, Engineers, Builders, and Quantity Surveyors, practicing in both public and private organizations. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire, titled “Criteria for Selecting Green Building Materials in Construction Industry Questionnaire” (CSGBMCIQ). The questionnaire was divided into two sections, A and B, with A containing demographic information and B divided into three clusters. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the bio-data, while mean scores were used to answer the research questions. A benchmark of 2.50 mean score was set for decision-making, with scores below this score indicating disagreement and scores above 2.50 indicating agreement. The finding revealed that construction professionals agreed on the efficiency of the existing criteria in promoting sustainable construction practices. It was found out that green building materials are utilized in construction projects to a low extent as rated by construction professionals. Based on the findings, it was recommended amongst others that Anambra State government should provide subsidies and tax incentives for projects that utilize green building materials. This can help offset the higher initial costs and encourage more builders to adopt sustainable materials.

Keywords

green building; materials; construction industry; sustainable construction practices.

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