Sustainable Development: Integrating ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems in the Construction Industry for Sustainable Construction Practices

Abstract

Construction has always been considered to be a risky business for the environment. Even with the right management system in place, many opportunities exist to improve the system’s sustainability. This investigation aims at the integration of ISO 14001 EMS in the construction industry, which is an expression of its international recognition as an environmental management standard. In so doing, this study reveals the effectiveness of ISO 14001 in environmental standards as well as the underlying motivations and barriers to the incorporation of this standard in construction businesses. This research is important because it provides practical guidance to construction organizations and policy leaders on how to maintain environmentally conscious practices. The study adopts a mixed approach of surveys and interviews to construction firms adopting ISO 14001. Cost, complexity, and resistance are the central barriers, and compliance and client demand are the essential drivers. Additionally, companies that implemented ISO 14001 showed a huge increase in energy consumption, waste management as well and carbon emissions. This study highlights the need for the use of ISO 14001 as a tool towards sustainable construction practices and provides practical recommendations for overcoming the identified barriers. It also points to the need for more research on the implementation experiences of non-certified firms and the role played by emerging technologies in the operations of ISO 14001.