Analysis of the underlying factors affecting BIM-LCA integration in the Ghanaian construction industry: a factor analysis approach
Abstract
Purpose
The integration of building information modelling (BIM) and life cycle assessment (LCA) is an effective means of achieving sustainability in the built environment. However, research remains scant on BIM-LCA integration in the Ghanaian construction industry (GCI). This study aims to evaluate the barriers to BIM-LCA integration in the GCI from the perspective of construction professionals.
Design/methodology/approach
Epistemologically relevant theory was developed using interpretivism and post-positivist principles and tested using primary quantitative data. Firstly, a comprehensive literature review identified and examined BIM-LCA integration barriers. Structured surveys of 216 Ghanaian construction professionals collected data on BIM-LCA integration barriers. Data was then analysed using exploratory factor analysis.
Findings
Findings revealed three clusters of barriers, namely, organisational barriers; technical complexity; and knowledge and education. These findings identify and recommend solutions to BIM-LCA integration barriers to standardise processes, raise awareness and integrate project management systems. BIM-LCA adoption will increase productivity, sustainability, construction sector employment (and skills development) and economic growth. This paper concludes with future research on how artificial intelligence and machine learning could improve BIM-LCA integration in building designs. Such work would reveal how new technologies can be used to overcome adoption barriers and promote sustainable building.
Originality/value
This research provides novel knowledge on the barriers to BIM-LCA adoption in Ghana. Practical recommendations for overcoming these barriers are also proposed, e.g. developing standardised procedures and protocols, increasing awareness and education and integrating BIM-LCA into project management systems.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Data availability statement: The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author, [Elvis Adjei Konadu], upon reasonable request.
Citation
Danso, A.K., Edwards, D.J., Adjei, E.K., Adjei-Kumi, T., Owusu-Manu, D.-G., Fianoo, S.I. and Thwala, W.D. (2024), "Analysis of the underlying factors affecting BIM-LCA integration in the Ghanaian construction industry: a factor analysis approach", Construction Innovation, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/CI-05-2024-0147
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited