In a revealing study published in the Journal of Construction Project Management and Innovation, Simon Ofori AMETEPEY from the Faculty of Technical Education at the University of Education in Winneba, Ghana, sheds light on the significant environmental impacts of construction activities in the country. The research highlights that while the construction phase is relatively brief compared to other stages of a building’s life cycle, its effects on the environment are profound and multifaceted.
AMETEPEY’s study identifies 33 potential environmental impacts of construction, which were distilled into nine major categories through a comprehensive survey that included questionnaires and interviews with 100 construction professionals. The findings indicate that resource consumption—encompassing raw materials, electricity, water, and fuel—emerges as the most critical impact, underscoring a pressing need for sustainable practices in the industry. “The construction sector must recognize its role in resource consumption and actively seek to minimize its footprint,” AMETEPEY asserts.
Following resource consumption, biodiversity impacts and local issues also ranked highly among the concerns raised by respondents. This prioritization of environmental issues signals a shift in the construction industry’s focus, emphasizing the necessity for stakeholders to adopt sustainable practices. As AMETEPEY notes, “There is an urgent need for special legislations and standards tailored to Ghana’s unique construction environment.”
This research not only highlights the environmental challenges faced by the construction sector but also presents a commercial opportunity. By embracing sustainable construction practices, companies can not only comply with emerging regulations but also appeal to a growing market of environmentally conscious clients. The potential for innovation in materials and methods could lead to cost savings and improved project outcomes, making sustainability a competitive advantage.
As Ghana continues to develop its infrastructure, the insights from this study could shape future construction projects, encouraging a more responsible approach that balances growth with environmental stewardship. With stakeholders urged to implement effective strategies, the construction industry stands at a crossroads where the decisions made today will have lasting impacts on the environment and the economy.
For further details on this compelling study, you can refer to AMETEPEY’s affiliation at Faculty of Technical Education, University of Education, Winneba.