In the heart of New Zealand’s construction industry, a groundbreaking study led by Tin Bui from the Faculty of Civil Engineering at Mien Trung University of Civil Engineering, Tuy Hoa, is reshaping how professionals approach sustainable construction materials (SCMs). The research, recently published in ‘Buildings’, delves into the intricate web of factors influencing the selection of SCMs, offering a fresh perspective that could revolutionize the industry’s approach to sustainability.
The construction sector is a significant contributor to global environmental issues, accounting for a staggering 40% of greenhouse gas emissions. Embodied carbon, the emissions from material manufacturing and construction processes, constitutes 11% of this total. This stark reality underscores the urgency for the industry to adopt sustainable practices. However, New Zealand’s construction codes and sustainability standards often fall short in providing cohesive, region-specific guidance, leaving industry professionals grappling with the complexities of selecting appropriate materials.
Bui’s study, which involved an online questionnaire distributed to 115 industry professionals, employed structural equation modeling (SEM) with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to examine the relationships among social, economic, environmental, and technical factors. The findings were eye-opening: technical factors, such as buildability, decay resistance, and maintainability, emerged as vital in achieving sustainable construction. “Technical factors are crucial in achieving sustainable construction,” Bui emphasized. “They are often overlooked, but they play a significant role in the long-term success of sustainable projects.”
The study also revealed a strong correlation among social, economic, environmental, and technical factors, all of which significantly impact the selection of SCMs. This interrelationship highlights the need for a holistic approach to sustainability, where decision-makers must consider not only the social, economic, and environmental benefits of materials but also their technical performance.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. As the industry increasingly prioritizes sustainability, the selection of SCMs will play a pivotal role in achieving environmental and regulatory objectives. Construction consultants can leverage these findings to advise customers on materials and the long-term economic benefits of investing in sustainable materials. This shift could lead to significant reductions in operating expenses and environmental impacts, aligning with the broader goals of sustainability.
The research also underscores the need for more cohesive and region-specific guidance in New Zealand’s construction codes and sustainability standards. By addressing the unique challenges posed by the country’s climatic conditions, such as seismic activity and local resource availability, the industry can better integrate sustainable practices into its operations.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, Bui’s research offers a roadmap for future developments. It calls for a more integrated approach to sustainability, where technical factors are given the attention they deserve. This shift could pave the way for more innovative and effective sustainable construction practices, ultimately benefiting both the environment and the industry’s bottom line.