ANALYZING BARRIERS TO SUSTAINABILITY: A CASE STUDY OF FAILED GREEN BUILDING PROJECTS IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examines the persistent barriers to sustainable construction in Nigeria by analyzing ten green building projects that failed to meet their sustainability objectives. Through a qualitative case study approach, the research identifies economic, technological, regulatory, and socio-cultural challenges as the primary obstacles. Economic barriers, such as significant budget overruns and frequent funding disruptions, underscore the financial risks associated with sustainable construction. Technological barriers, including a shortage of skilled labor and reliance on imported materials, highlight a critical capacity gap in the local construction industry. Regulatory challenges are characterized by ineffective policies and inconsistent enforcement, weakening the framework needed to support green building initiatives. Socio-cultural barriers, including resistance to change and low awareness of the benefits of sustainability, further complicate efforts to engage stakeholders effectively. The study offers strategic recommendations to overcome these barriers, such as enhancing financial incentives, developing targeted training programs, reforming regulatory frameworks, and launching comprehensive awareness campaigns. It also calls for future research, including longitudinal studies to evaluate the long-term impacts of sustainable practices and comparative international research to adapt successful strategies to the Nigerian context.