Sustainability strategies in the construction industry: Implications on Green Growth in Nigeria

Abstract

The construction industry is a major driver of economic growth. However, activities from the construction industry contribute significantly to environmental pollution and unsustainable consumption of depleting natural resources. Green growth on the other hand, is an innovative growth which motivates businesses to adopt environmental friendly activities. This paper assessed sustainability strategies in the construction industry. A quantitative research design was adopted with the use of questionnaires distributed to construction organizations in Lagos, Nigeria. Findings reveal that many of the construction organizations surveyed do not have sustainability strategies because of low awareness about sustainability issues in construction. However, of the three pillars of sustainability (environmental, economic and social sustainability), environmental sustainability was found to yield greatest benefit. For the construction industry to contribute to Nigeria's green growth agenda there should be increased awareness of sustainability issues and institutional policies to drive sustainability.