In the ever-evolving landscape of construction and sustainability, a groundbreaking study has emerged, poised to reshape how we select building materials. Led by Mona Hassan Soliman from the Department of Architectural Engineering at Fayoum University, this research delves into the intricate world of sustainable building materials (SBM) and the decision-making frameworks that guide their selection. Published in the esteemed journal Discover Materials, which translates to “اكتشاف المواد” in Arabic, the study offers a critical review and comparative analysis of fifteen research studies that employ Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) methodologies for SBM selection.
The construction industry is under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices, and the choice of building materials plays a pivotal role in this transition. Soliman’s research highlights a crucial gap in the comprehensive analysis of the relative priorities assigned to various sustainability criteria within MCDM frameworks. “The selection of sustainable materials is not just about environmental benefits; it’s a multifaceted decision that impacts economic, social, and technical aspects as well,” Soliman explains.
The study reveals a consistent trend in existing frameworks: environmental criteria take center stage, accounting for 36.4% of the relative weights, followed by technical (25.5%), economic (21.6%), and social (16.5%) criteria. Within the environmental category, “minimizing environmental impacts” ranked highest, underscoring the industry’s focus on reducing ecological footprints. However, the study also underscores the importance of technical, economic, and social attributes, which, although given comparatively lower weights, are vital for a holistic approach to sustainability.
For the energy sector, these findings are particularly relevant. The choice of sustainable building materials can significantly impact energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and enhance the overall performance of buildings. “By prioritizing environmental impacts, we are not only contributing to a healthier planet but also paving the way for more energy-efficient structures,” Soliman notes. This shift can lead to substantial commercial benefits, including reduced energy consumption, lower maintenance costs, and improved marketability of green buildings.
The study also highlights the need for further empirical research and the incorporation of end-user feedback to better align criteria weights with real-world sustainability implementation. This call to action could drive future developments in the field, fostering a more collaborative approach between researchers, practitioners, and end-users.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, Soliman’s research serves as a critical guidepost, illuminating the path towards more sustainable and informed decision-making. By understanding the relative weights of different sustainability criteria, stakeholders can make more informed choices, ultimately contributing to a greener and more efficient built environment. The insights from this study are not just academic; they have real-world implications that could shape the future of construction and energy efficiency.