In the heart of southwest Nigeria, a quiet revolution is brewing, one that could reshape the construction industry and have significant implications for the energy sector. At the forefront of this shift are Quantity Surveyors (QS), professionals who are increasingly being recognized for their potential to drive the adoption of sustainable construction (SC) practices. A recent study, led by Nathaniel Ayinde Olatunde, sheds light on how these unsung heroes can transform the built environment, making it more sustainable and cost-effective.
The construction industry is one of the largest consumers of energy and resources, contributing significantly to global carbon emissions. In Nigeria, the push for sustainable construction has been slow, despite the obvious benefits. This is where Quantity Surveyors come in. They are uniquely positioned to influence project outcomes, from the initial planning stages to the final delivery. Their expertise in cost management, procurement, and contract administration makes them invaluable in promoting sustainable practices.
The study, which surveyed and interviewed QS professionals in Ekiti and Osun States, revealed that while these professionals possess significant knowledge of sustainable construction, their roles in facilitating the adoption of SC materials are not fully utilized. “Quantity Surveyors have a wealth of knowledge about sustainable construction,” said Olatunde. “However, their potential in driving the adoption of sustainable materials and practices is largely untapped.”
So, how can QS professionals enhance SC adoption? The study identifies several key roles. Firstly, they can drive stakeholder awareness, ensuring that everyone involved in a project understands the benefits of sustainable construction. Secondly, they can promote life cycle costing, helping clients see the long-term financial benefits of sustainable choices. They can also advise on alternative materials, their cost implications, and contribute to policy formulation, advancing research and development initiatives, and conducting feasibility studies for sustainable development.
For the energy sector, the implications are significant. Sustainable construction often goes hand in hand with energy efficiency. By promoting the use of sustainable materials and practices, QS professionals can help reduce the energy demands of buildings, lowering operational costs and carbon emissions. This is not just good for the environment; it’s also good for business.
The study, published in ‘Frontiers in Built Environment’ (translated to English: Frontiers in the Built Environment), is a call to action. It’s a reminder that the construction industry has a significant role to play in the fight against climate change, and that Quantity Surveyors are key players in this fight. As Olatunde puts it, “The potential for QS professionals to drive significant improvements in the sustainability of the construction sector is immense.”
The research also highlights the need for further studies. The current study is limited to two states in southwest Nigeria, and future research could expand the sample size and geographic scope. But even with these limitations, the findings are clear: Quantity Surveyors have a crucial role to play in enhancing the adoption of sustainable construction practices. And as the world continues to grapple with climate change, their role will only become more important.
In the coming years, we can expect to see more QS professionals stepping up, driving the adoption of sustainable construction practices, and transforming the built environment. And as they do, they’ll be shaping a more sustainable future for us all, one building at a time. The energy sector, in particular, stands to gain from this shift, with lower energy demands and reduced carbon emissions. It’s a win-win situation, and it’s happening right now, in the heart of southwest Nigeria.