ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AND IMPACT REDUCTION IN CIVIL ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION PRACTICES
Abstract
Abstract: The civil engineering and construction industry plays a pivotal role in global environmental degradation, accounting for considerable energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and natural resource depletion. This study presents a comprehensive review of strategies aimed at mitigating the environmental impact of construction practices, with a particular focus on Nigeria and other developing economies. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach and drawing on recent literature from 2022 to 2024, the study critically examines key areas such as the use of sustainable and alternative construction materials, adoption of energy-efficient technologies, waste minimization strategies, water conservation techniques, and the role of effective policy frameworks in driving sustainable development. Despite increasing global awareness and adoption of green construction practices, implementation within low- and middle-income countries remains limited. Challenges include high initial costs, lack of technical expertise, insufficient regulatory enforcement, and fragmented supply chains. These barriers hinder the transition toward more sustainable construction systems. The study emphasizes the need for context-specific strategies, recommending the strengthening of policy frameworks, investment in capacity building, promotion of innovation, and the fostering of collaborative partnerships between government, industry, and academia. Such integrated efforts are essential to promote sustainability and resilience in the built environment, particularly in regions facing rapid urbanization and infrastructure expansion.
Keywords: Sustainable construction, Environmental impact, Green building, Alternative construction materials, Waste minimization.
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