GREEN CONSTRUCTION AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT: ENHANCING STRUCTURAL EFFICENCY AND ENVIORMENTAL PERFORMANCE

Abstract

Construction industry is under increasing pressure to ensure that the environmental impact is minimized without lowering the efficiency and quality of the project. The paper discusses how the concept of green construction can be incorporated in project management systems to improve the performance of the structure as well as its environmental performance. Our study was based on a mixed-methods research that incorporates literature review, case study analysis based on twelve green construction projects, and interviews with 156 project managers and engineers in six countries. We find that to succeed in the integration, it is necessary to plan on a very early level, involve stakeholders, and flex to adaptive management structures. Projects which were green in design presented lifecycle cost savings of 23 percent and structural life of 34 percent higher than standard methods. We determined major obstacles such as initial cost issues, lack of knowledge, and regulatory discrepancies, and facilitating factors such as certification systems, technological advancements, and joint-procurement systems. This study suggests a realistic model that incorporates a balance of sustainability, time, cost, and quality goals that act as practical advice to construction professionals seeking to deliver projects in an environmental-friendly manner.