A Study on Sustainability Application in Construction Projects in Khartoum state

Abstract

Despite the important and vital role that the construction industry plays in the urban and economic development of any country, it affects the environment greatly due to the consumption of many natural resources, energy sources and the resulting pollution and waste. The application of sustainability or sustainable construction in construction industry aims to reduce the negative impact of construction industry on the environment, create balance and harmony between natural and built environments, and maintain economic and social progress in a fair manner. The main objective of this research is to know the reality of the application of sustainability in construction projects in Khartoum, to determine the level of awareness of concept of sustainability and sustainable construction among workers in the construction industry and to determine obstacles facing application of sustainability in construction projects. Data were collected to achieve the objectives of research through questionnaire tool, study sample was a group of consulting offices and contracting companies. Results were analyzed by SPSS statistical analysis program and necessary statistical tests were performed. From analysis of data, results shown that there is no significant application of sustainability in construction projects in Khartoum, and that construction projects are in the early stages from the path of implementing sustainability and sustainable construction. Also, there are many obstacles and challenges facing the application of sustainability in construction projects in Khartoum, such as insufficient Government support and policies, inadequate building codes and regulations related to sustainability and lack of training and education. Therefore, an effort must be made to raise awareness of the concept of sustainability and sustainable construction, also responsible authorities should put the laws and regulations related to sustainability and launch the appropriate guidelines for adopting sustainability methods in the construction industry to reduce its impact on the environment.