In a groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Engineering and Applied Science, researchers have identified and evaluated the causes of waste in green building projects across the Middle East. This research, led by Usama Hamed Issa from the Department of Civil Engineering at Taif University, underscores the pressing challenges that green building initiatives face during their design and construction phases.
The study highlights that these causes of waste not only compromise the environmental integrity of green building projects but also significantly impact their economic viability and social objectives. A total of 45 distinct causes of waste were identified and categorized into five main groups: green materials, green building design, sustainable site, green building technologies, and stakeholders. Among these, the most critical was found to be “Poor assessment of site conditions before design,” which encompasses factors such as topography, hydrology, climate, vegetation, and soil.
Issa emphasized the importance of understanding these waste causes, stating, “Addressing these issues is not just about improving project outcomes; it’s about ensuring that green buildings can truly fulfill their promise of sustainability.” This assertion resonates deeply in an industry increasingly focused on sustainable practices, where the economic implications of waste can be substantial.
The research employed a robust methodology, incorporating field surveys, semi-structured interviews, and brainstorming sessions to assess the probability of occurrence for each waste cause and its impact on the project’s objectives. The findings revealed a strong correlation between waste causes and economic impacts, suggesting that inefficiencies in the early stages of project development can lead to significant financial repercussions.
The implications of this research are profound for the construction sector. By identifying the critical areas where waste occurs, stakeholders can implement targeted strategies to mitigate these issues, ultimately leading to more efficient and economically viable green building projects. As the construction industry grapples with increasing demands for sustainability, understanding these waste dynamics could shape future practices and policies.
The study’s insights are particularly timely, given the growing emphasis on sustainable construction practices in the region. As Issa noted, “Recognizing the multifaceted nature of waste in green building projects is essential for advancing our sustainability goals.”
For those interested in further exploring these findings or reaching out to the lead author, more information can be found at the Department of Civil Engineering, Taif University. This research not only adds to the body of knowledge in sustainable construction but also serves as a call to action for industry professionals to prioritize waste reduction strategies in their projects.