In the heart of the Mediterranean, Lebanon’s construction sector is grappling with a unique set of challenges that could reshape its future and offer valuable insights for developing economies worldwide. A recent study led by Claudia Mattar from the Issam Fares Faculty of Technology at the University of Balamand in Tripoli, Lebanon, sheds light on the critical factors that could drive the Lebanese construction industry towards sustainability and resilience.
The construction industry is at a crossroads, with global pressures to reduce carbon emissions and enhance material efficiency. In Lebanon, economic instability, limited regulation, and fragmented management practices have often hindered the adoption of sustainable materials and practices. Mattar’s study, published in the journal *Frontiers in Built Environment* (which translates to *Frontiers in the Built Environment*), aims to bridge this gap by integrating sustainability-oriented construction success factors with material performance indicators.
The research combines a comprehensive literature review with a case study of the Lebanese construction sector. A structured survey of 55 Lebanese construction firms evaluated the relevance of external, institutional, and internal success factors. The findings reveal that economic and technological variables, coupled with the availability of construction standards and managerial competencies, are crucial for achieving both conventional project success and sustainable material outcomes.
“Economic and technological variables are not just important; they are pivotal in driving the adoption of sustainable materials and practices,” Mattar emphasizes. The study highlights the need for regulatory modernization, green procurement, and material innovation, such as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), recycled aggregates, and smart material applications.
The implications for the energy sector are significant. As the construction industry increasingly adopts sustainable materials, the demand for energy-efficient solutions is set to rise. This shift could open new avenues for innovation and investment in green technologies, ultimately contributing to a low-carbon future.
Mattar’s research offers a pathway to more resilient, efficient, and environmentally responsible construction practices. By connecting project success factors with material performance, the study provides a framework that could be adapted to other developing economies facing similar challenges.
As the world grapples with the urgent need to minimize carbon emissions and improve material efficiency, Lebanon’s construction sector stands as a testament to the potential for transformation. The insights from Mattar’s study could shape future developments in the field, driving the industry towards a more sustainable and resilient future.