In the ever-evolving landscape of construction, sustainability is no longer a buzzword but a necessity. A groundbreaking study led by Mahmoud Alsharkawy from the Integrated Engineering Design Management Program at Cairo University, Giza, Egypt, is set to revolutionize how we assess and enhance environmental performance in construction projects. Published in ‘Cleaner Engineering and Technology’, the research introduces a novel methodology that could reshape the industry’s approach to sustainability.
The study, which focuses on the construction phase, identifies and ranks the most critical factors that influence a project’s environmental impact. By conducting a comprehensive literature review and expert consultations, Alsharkawy and his team compiled a list of forty factors, categorized into nine groups: Solid Waste Management, Water Management, Energy Efficiency, Pollutants Control, Traffic Management, Site Arrangement, Procurement, Awareness Leverage & Education, and Social Governance.
The methodology doesn’t stop at identification; it goes a step further with a two-step questionnaire survey and rigorous statistical analysis. Using tools like the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test, Exploratory Factors Analysis (EFA), and the Cronbach’s Alpha test for reliability, the researchers refined the list to thirty-two final factors. “This process ensures that we are focusing on the most relevant and impactful aspects of environmental performance,” Alsharkawy explains.
But what sets this research apart is its application of the Best-Worst Method (BWM) for decision-making. By calculating weights for each factor and setting assessment benchmarks, the study generates an environmental scoring sheet. This tool provides an overall scoring evaluation threshold, indicating the holistic environmental performance grade of a construction project.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. With energy efficiency being one of the key categories, this scoring system could drive significant improvements in how energy is managed and conserved during construction. “Energy efficiency is not just about reducing costs; it’s about reducing our carbon footprint and contributing to a more sustainable future,” Alsharkawy notes.
The case study presented in the research demonstrates the practical application of this scoring tool, offering a glimpse into how it can be integrated into real-world projects. As the construction industry continues to grapple with sustainability challenges, this methodology provides a clear path forward. It offers a systematic way to assess and improve environmental performance, making it an invaluable tool for contractors, project managers, and policymakers alike.
The research, published in the journal ‘Cleaner Engineering and Technology’, or ‘Pure Engineering and Technology’ in English, marks a significant step towards a more sustainable construction industry. As we look to the future, this methodology could become a standard practice, shaping how we build and interact with our environment. The potential for commercial impact is vast, with energy efficiency improvements alone offering substantial cost savings and environmental benefits. This research is not just about assessing the present; it’s about building a more sustainable future.