Sustainability

Editorial

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7 pages, 745 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Sustainability in Construction Engineering

by Edmundas Kazimieras Zavadskas, Jonas Šaparauskas and Jurgita Antucheviciene

Sustainability 2018, 10(7), 2236; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10072236 - 29 Jun 2018

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 12847

Abstract

The concept of sustainability has been expanding to all areas of economic activity, including construction engineering. Construction engineering is a complex discipline that involves designing, planning, constructing and managing infrastructures. In this Special Issue, 27 selected and peer-reviewed papers contribute to sustainable construction [...] Read more.

The concept of sustainability has been expanding to all areas of economic activity, including construction engineering. Construction engineering is a complex discipline that involves designing, planning, constructing and managing infrastructures. In this Special Issue, 27 selected and peer-reviewed papers contribute to sustainable construction by offering technological, economic, social and environmental benefits through a variety of methodologies and tools, including fundamental decision-making models and methods as well as advanced multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods and techniques. The papers are mainly concentrated in five areas: Sustainable architecture; construction/reconstruction technology and sustainable construction materials; construction economics, including investments, supply, contracting and costs calculation; infrastructure planning and assessment; project risk perception, analysis and assessment, with an emphasis on sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review, Other

16 pages, 1336 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Emission of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from Dispersion and Cementitious Waterproofing Products

by Mateusz Kozicki, Michał Piasecki, Anna Goljan, Halina Deptuła and Adam Niesłochowski

Sustainability 2018, 10(7), 2178; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10072178 - 26 Jun 2018

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 6351

Abstract

Many different methods and indicators are commonly used for the assessment of indoor air quality (IAQ). One of them is pollution source control; among the sources, building materials are of special concern. This study presents a source characterization of waterproofing products used mainly [...] Read more.

Many different methods and indicators are commonly used for the assessment of indoor air quality (IAQ). One of them is pollution source control; among the sources, building materials are of special concern. This study presents a source characterization of waterproofing products used mainly in non-industrial buildings. The authors have attempted to fill some research gaps by determining emission factors for waterproofing materials. The work contains a summary of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from dispersion and cementitious liquid-applied water-impermeable products. VOC emissions were determined in a 100-L stainless steel ventilated emission test chamber. Air samples were collected by an active method on Tenax TA^®, while VOCs were analyzed using a TD-GC/MS method. Identified VOCs were also expressed as the total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) and converted into area-specific emission rates q_A. The results for different groups of identified compounds (alcohols, benzene derivatives, aldehydes, ketones, ethers and esters) were compared. It was found that VOC emissions clearly decreased with time during each experiment, which lasted 28 days. It is further noted that different types of products were characterized by the emission of specific groups of compounds that were not emitted by other types of products. An essential factor in the elimination and minimization of the occurrence of sources of indoor air pollution is the appropriate selection of finishing materials, which should be characterized by as low as possible emission of VOCs. The results presented in this work can lead to practical applications in the selection of low-emission products for certified green buildings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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13 pages, 1090 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Factors Affecting Public Risk Perception of Thai High-Speed Railway Projects Based on “Belt and Road Initiative”

by Sangsomboon Ploywarin, Yan Song and Dian Sun

Sustainability 2018, 10(6), 1978; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10061978 - 13 Jun 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4611

Abstract

Studies on the factors affecting public risk perception of high-speed railway projects in Thailand are very limited. The aim of this study was to assess the influencing factors of public railway project risk perception, which described the public trust degrees of government, enterprise, [...] Read more.

Studies on the factors affecting public risk perception of high-speed railway projects in Thailand are very limited. The aim of this study was to assess the influencing factors of public railway project risk perception, which described the public trust degrees of government, enterprise, media and experts with a combination of variables. Therefore, the study used the widely accepted influential factors and proposed a comprehensive framework to clarify the mechanism among various factors in the public risk perception. Dataset of 675 samples was collected from Don Muang area Bangkok, Pak Thong Chai, Pak Chong, Kaengkhoi area, and Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand through questionnaire. Rationality of the questionnaire was ensured through its high reliability and efficiency. The dimension hypothesis of the second-order factor was validated by confirmatory factor analysis, and the relationship among information acquisition, trust, emotion and risk perception was analyzed through the structural equation model. The results show that, within the factors that affect risk perception, the public has a more direct effect on the factors of social emotion of railway projects compared with information acquirement and the factors of trust level of each subject. This study exerts practical implications to reduce public risk perception of railway projects and promote the development of railway in Thailand. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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17 pages, 1324 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Construction Risk Perceptions in the Kuwaiti Construction Industry

by Dalya Ismael and Tripp Shealy

Sustainability 2018, 10(6), 1854; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10061854 - 3 Jun 2018

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 8067

Abstract

Sustainable construction is fundamentally different than traditional construction because it requires whole systems thinking, early collaboration across stakeholders, and core principles like reducing resource consumption, eliminating toxins, and applying life cycle costing. Construction professionals unfamiliar with this mindset and approach may perceive sustainable [...] Read more.

Sustainable construction is fundamentally different than traditional construction because it requires whole systems thinking, early collaboration across stakeholders, and core principles like reducing resource consumption, eliminating toxins, and applying life cycle costing. Construction professionals unfamiliar with this mindset and approach may perceive sustainable construction as risky. One of the global regions in need of more sustainable construction is the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) region. The MENA region is one of the fastest developing in the world. However, it is the slowest one in implementing sustainable construction practices. Kuwait, in particular, contributes 53% more carbon emissions per capita than the United States. To understand how the Kuwaiti construction industry perceives risks associated with more sustainable construction, a survey was developed with 52 risk elements in which 131 industry professionals responded. The results indicate that industry professionals perceive a lack of public awareness as the risk element with the highest probability of occurrence. The risk element with the highest possible negative impact on future projects is designers’ and contractors’ inexperience with sustainable construction. Other risks were found to include a high initial cost for materials and overall project costs. Educational interventions, changes in risk allocation, and behavioral science to reframe upfront costs as long-term savings are offered as possible solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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16 pages, 4698 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards Sustainable Renovation: Key Performance Indicators for Quality Monitoring

by Tatjana Vilutiene and Česlovas Ignatavičius

Sustainability 2018, 10(6), 1840; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10061840 - 1 Jun 2018

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4271

Abstract

The aim of this study is to propose the rational quality monitoring of the renovation process with methodology for data collection and analysis. The presented approach is based on a complex system of criteria that enables the comprehensive evaluation of the quality of [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to propose the rational quality monitoring of the renovation process with methodology for data collection and analysis. The presented approach is based on a complex system of criteria that enables the comprehensive evaluation of the quality of the renovation process. Methodology that is developed for the rational quality monitoring of the renovation process can be used for long term monitoring activities to ensure that the system is up to date, while reflecting the concerns of the key stakeholders and the transfer of requirements. The main emphasis lies on the identification of the rapidly changing environment (regulations, technologies, needs and expectations of building owners, etc.). Quality monitoring will also serve as an analytical framework to analyze the effects of renovation and to identify what measures shall be undertaken to ensure that the renovation delivers the most positive results. This paper presents the case study analysis of renovated multi-family apartment buildings, the existing indicators of the renovation monitoring scheme and the structure of the proposed monitoring system of the renovation processes, key indicators, the main components of the system, and their links. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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16 pages, 5170 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Computer Vision-Based Bridge Displacement Measurements Using Rotation-Invariant Image Processing Technique

by Byung-Wan Jo, Yun-Sung Lee, Jun Ho Jo and Rana Muhammad Asad Khan

Sustainability 2018, 10(6), 1785; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10061785 - 29 May 2018

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 7337

Abstract

Bridges are exposed to various kinds of external loads, including vehicle and hurricanes, during their life cycle. These loads cause structural damage, which may lead to bridge collapse. To ensure bridge safety, it is essential to periodically inspect the physical and functional conditions [...] Read more.

Bridges are exposed to various kinds of external loads, including vehicle and hurricanes, during their life cycle. These loads cause structural damage, which may lead to bridge collapse. To ensure bridge safety, it is essential to periodically inspect the physical and functional conditions of bridges. The displacement responses of a bridge have significance in determining the structural behaviors and assessing their safety. In recent years, many researchers have been studying bridge displacement measurements using image processing technologies. Image-processing-based displacement measurements using a computer analysis system can quickly assess bridge conditions and, thus, can be used to enhance the reliability of bridges with high accuracy. This paper presents a method based on multiple-image processing bridge displacement measurements that includes enhanced robustness to image rotation. This study applies template matching and a homography matrix to measure the displacement that works well regardless of the angle between the smartphone camera and the target. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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11 pages, 1212 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Classification of Economic Regions with Regards to Selected Factors Characterizing the Construction Industry

by Bożena Hoła and Tomasz Nowobilski

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1637; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051637 - 18 May 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4147

Abstract

This article presents the methodology for classifying economic regions with regards to selected factors that characterize a region, such as: the economic structure of the region and share of individual sectors in the economy; employment; the dynamics of the development of individual sectors [...] Read more.

This article presents the methodology for classifying economic regions with regards to selected factors that characterize a region, such as: the economic structure of the region and share of individual sectors in the economy; employment; the dynamics of the development of individual sectors expressed as an increase or decrease in production value; population density, and the level of occupational safety. Cluster analysis, which is a method of multidimensional statistical analysis available in Statistica software, was used to solve the task. The proposed methodology was used to group Polish voivodeships with regards to the speed of economic development and occupational safety in the construction industry. Data published by the Central Statistical Office was used for this purpose, such as the value of construction and assembly production, the number of people employed in the construction industry, the population of an individual region, and the number of people injured in occupational accidents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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19 pages, 1113 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A New Group Decision Model Based on Grey-Intuitionistic Fuzzy-ELECTRE and VIKOR for Contractor Assessment Problem

by Hassan Hashemi, Seyed Meysam Mousavi, Edmundas Kazimieras Zavadskas, Alireza Chalekaee and Zenonas Turskis

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1635; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051635 - 18 May 2018

Cited by 69 | Viewed by 4601

Abstract

This study introduces a new decision model with multi-criteria analysis by a group of decision makers (DMs) with intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IFSs). The presented model depends on a new integration of IFSs theory, ELECTRE and VIKOR along with grey relational analysis (GRA). To [...] Read more.

This study introduces a new decision model with multi-criteria analysis by a group of decision makers (DMs) with intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IFSs). The presented model depends on a new integration of IFSs theory, ELECTRE and VIKOR along with grey relational analysis (GRA). To portray uncertain real-life situations and take account of complex decision problem, multi-criteria group decision-making (MCGDM) model by totally unknown importance are introduced with IF-setting. Hence, a weighting method depended on Entropy and IFSs, is developed to present the weights of DMs and evaluation factors. A new ranking approach is provided for prioritizing the alternatives. To indicate the applicability of the presented new decision model, an industrial application for assessing contractors in the construction industry is given and discussed from the recent literature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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26 pages, 2929 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Hybrid Fuzzy BWM-COPRAS Method for Analyzing Key Factors of Sustainable Architecture

by Hannan Amoozad Mahdiraji, Sepas Arzaghi, Gintaras Stauskis and Edmundas Kazimieras Zavadskas

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1626; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051626 - 18 May 2018

Cited by 84 | Viewed by 8388

Abstract

Sustainable development by emphasizing on satisfying the current needs of the general public without threating their futures, alongside with taking the environment and future generations under consideration, has become one of the prominent issues in different societies. Therefore, identifying and prioritizing the key [...] Read more.

Sustainable development by emphasizing on satisfying the current needs of the general public without threating their futures, alongside with taking the environment and future generations under consideration, has become one of the prominent issues in different societies. Therefore, identifying and prioritizing the key factors of sustainable architecture according to regional and cultural features could be the first step in sustaining the architecture as a process and an outcome. In this paper, the key indicators of the environmental sustainability in contemporary architecture of Iran has been identified and prioritized. This study has been performed in three phases. First, identifying key factors of environmental sustainability according to the experts’ point of view and transforming the collected data to triangular fuzzy numbers. Subsequently, the best-worst multi-criteria decision-making method (henceforth BWM) under grey system circumstances has determined the weights and priority of the identified criteria. Eventually, identified key factors were prioritized by the complex proportional assessment method (hereafter COPRAS) under the condition of fuzzy sets. The results indicate that the key factors of creating engagement between buildings and other urban systems has the highest priority in the built environment sustainability in contemporary architecture and proving building management systems has the lowest. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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23 pages, 6169 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Project Portfolio Risk Identification and Analysis, Considering Project Risk Interactions and Using Bayesian Networks

by Foroogh Ghasemi, Mohammad Hossein Mahmoudi Sari, Vahidreza Yousefi, Reza Falsafi and Jolanta Tamošaitienė

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1609; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051609 - 17 May 2018

Cited by 77 | Viewed by 11222

Abstract

An organization’s strategic objectives are accomplished through portfolios. However, the materialization of portfolio risks may affect a portfolio’s sustainable success and the achievement of those objectives. Moreover, project interdependencies and cause–effect relationships between risks create complexity for portfolio risk analysis. This paper presents [...] Read more.

An organization’s strategic objectives are accomplished through portfolios. However, the materialization of portfolio risks may affect a portfolio’s sustainable success and the achievement of those objectives. Moreover, project interdependencies and cause–effect relationships between risks create complexity for portfolio risk analysis. This paper presents a model using Bayesian network (BN) methodology for modeling and analyzing portfolio risks. To develop this model, first, portfolio-level risks and risks caused by project interdependencies are identified. Then, based on their cause–effect relationships all portfolio risks are organized in a BN. Conditional probability distributions for this network are specified and the Bayesian networks method is used to estimate the probability of portfolio risk. This model was applied to a portfolio of a construction company located in Iran and proved effective in analyzing portfolio risk probability. Furthermore, the model provided valuable information for selecting a portfolio’s projects and making strategic decisions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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14 pages, 693 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cost Calculation of Construction Projects Including Sustainability Factors Using the Case Based Reasoning (CBR) Method

by Agnieszka Leśniak and Krzysztof Zima

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1608; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051608 - 17 May 2018

Cited by 93 | Viewed by 8891

Abstract

The idea of sustainable development and the resulting environmentally friendly attitudes are increasingly used in construction projects. Designing in accordance with the principles of sustainable development has an impact on the costs of construction works. The authors of this paper proposed an approach [...] Read more.

The idea of sustainable development and the resulting environmentally friendly attitudes are increasingly used in construction projects. Designing in accordance with the principles of sustainable development has an impact on the costs of construction works. The authors of this paper proposed an approach to estimate the costs of sports field construction using the Case Based Reasoning method. In their analysis, they distinguished 16 factors that affect the cost of a construction project and are possible to already be described at an early stage of its preparation. The original elements of the work include: consideration of such environmental factors as the environmental impact of the building, materials used, the impact of the facility on the surroundings affecting the amount of implementation costs and development of own database containing 143 construction projects that are related to sports fields. In order to calculate the similarity of cases, different calculation formulas were applied depending on the type of data (quantitative, qualitative, uncertain, no data). The obtained results confirmed that the CBR method based on historical data and using criteria related to sustainable development may be useful in cost estimation in the initial phase of a construction project. Its application to the calculation of the costs that are related to the implementation of sports fields generates an error of 14%, which is a very good result for initial calculations. In the short run, such factors as the impact of the object and the type of materials that are used from the perspective of their influence on the environment may be decisive as far as the costs determined in the life cycle of the building are concerned, as well as the lowest costs of the building construction ensuring the appropriate quality and respect for the environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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26 pages, 376 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Construction Engineering Project Risk Assessment with Some 2-Tuple Linguistic Neutrosophic Hamy Mean Operators

by Shengjun Wu, Jie Wang, Guiwu Wei and Yu Wei

Sustainability 2018, 10(5), 1536; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10051536 - 11 May 2018

Cited by 128 | Viewed by 4382

Abstract

In this paper, we expand the Hamy mean (HM) operator, weighted Hamy mean (WHM), dual Hamy mean (DHM) operator, and weighted dual Hamy mean (WDHM) operator with 2-tuple linguistic neutrosophic numbers (2TLNNs) to propose a 2-tuple linguistic neutrosophic Hamy mean (2TLNHM) operator, 2-tuple [...] Read more.

In this paper, we expand the Hamy mean (HM) operator, weighted Hamy mean (WHM), dual Hamy mean (DHM) operator, and weighted dual Hamy mean (WDHM) operator with 2-tuple linguistic neutrosophic numbers (2TLNNs) to propose a 2-tuple linguistic neutrosophic Hamy mean (2TLNHM) operator, 2-tuple linguistic neutrosophic weighted Hamy mean (2TLNWHM) operator, 2-tuple linguistic neutrosophic dual Hamy mean (2TLNDHM) operator, and 2-tuple linguistic neutrosophic weighted dual Hamy mean (2TLNWDHM) operator. Then, the multiple attribute decision-making (MADM) methods are proposed with these operators. Finally, we utilize an applicable example in risk assessment for construction engineering projects to prove the proposed methods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

20 pages, 1052 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving the Green Building Evaluation System in China Based on the DANP Method

by Qi-Gan Shao, James J. H. Liou, Sung-Shun Weng and Yen-Ching Chuang

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1173; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041173 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 6297

Abstract

Against the background of sustainable development, green building practices could be part of the strategy for solving environmental and energy problems in developing countries. The aim of this paper is to explore a system for the assessment of green buildings in China that [...] Read more.

Against the background of sustainable development, green building practices could be part of the strategy for solving environmental and energy problems in developing countries. The aim of this paper is to explore a system for the assessment of green buildings in China that provides the government and stakeholders with ways to improve their strategies for green building development. We apply a hybrid model, developed by integrating the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory and Analytical Network Process (called DANP) method, to build an influential network relationship map (INRM) between assessment systems and to derive the criterion weights. The INRM and derived weights can help us to understand this complex assessment system and to set improvement priorities for green building development. The results demonstrate that indoor environment, materials, and smart facilities are the top three critical factors for green building evaluation. Finally, we discuss some management implications based on an actual case study with solutions provided using this model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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14 pages, 4158 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Construction Projects Assessment Based on the Sustainable Development Criteria by an Integrated Fuzzy AHP and Improved GRA Model

by Seyed Morteza Hatefi and Jolanta Tamošaitienė

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 991; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040991 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 6637

Abstract

Due to the increasing population and earth pollution, managing construction and infrastructure projects with less damage to the environment and less pollution is very important. Sustainable development aims at reducing damage to the environment, making projects economical, and increasing comfort and social justice. [...] Read more.

Due to the increasing population and earth pollution, managing construction and infrastructure projects with less damage to the environment and less pollution is very important. Sustainable development aims at reducing damage to the environment, making projects economical, and increasing comfort and social justice. This study proposes fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and improved grey relational analysis (GRA) to assess construction projects based on the sustainable development criteria. For doing so, sustainable development criteria are first identified in economic, social, and environmental dimensions using literature review, and are then customized for urban construction projects using experts’ opinions. After designing questionnaires and collecting data, fuzzy AHP is used for determining the importance of sustainable development criteria and their subcriteria. Then, improved GRA is employed for assessing six recreational, commercial, and official centers in Isfahan regarding the weights of criteria and subcriteria. The proposed fuzzy AHP-improved GRA help us to prioritize construction projects based on the sustainable development criteria. The results of applying fuzzy AHP show that the weights of economic, social, and environmental criteria are equal to 0.330, 0.321, and 0.349, respectively, which are close to each other. This means that the importance of all three aspects of sustainability is almost equal to each other. Furthermore, “Having profits for the society”, “Increasing social justice”, and “Adherence to environmental policies” are identified as the most important indicators of sustainable development in terms of economic, social, and environmental aspects, respectively. Finally, the results of employing improved GRA determine Negin Chaharbagh recreational and commercial complex as the best project. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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17 pages, 3713 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Decision-Aiding Evaluation of Public Infrastructure for Electric Vehicles in Cities and Resorts of Lithuania

by Vytautas Palevičius, Askoldas Podviezko, Henrikas Sivilevičius and Olegas Prentkovskis

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 904; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040904 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5402

Abstract

In the National Communication Development of 2014–2022 Program and Guidelines of the Development of the Public Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure confirmed by the Government of the Republic of Lithuania, it is planned that, until the year of 2025, among newly registered vehicles, electric [...] Read more.

In the National Communication Development of 2014–2022 Program and Guidelines of the Development of the Public Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure confirmed by the Government of the Republic of Lithuania, it is planned that, until the year of 2025, among newly registered vehicles, electric ones should make at least 10%. Analysis of the trend of electric vehicles makes evident that the target does not have a real chance to be achieved without targeted efforts. In order to improve the infrastructure of electric vehicles in major cities and resorts of Lithuania, we have carried out a comparative analysis of public infrastructure for electric vehicles in 18 Lithuanian cities and resorts. For the quantitative analysis, we proposed eight criteria describing such an infrastructure. As perception of the infrastructure by owners of electric cars depends on complex factors, we used multiple criteria evaluation methods (MCDM) for evaluation of the current state of its development by four such methods: EDAS, SAW, TOPSIS, and PROMETHEE II. Based on the evaluation results, prominent and lagging factors were understood, and proposals for effective development of public infrastructure of electric vehicles were proposed for improvement of the infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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22 pages, 2111 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Promoting Sustainability through Investment in Building Information Modeling (BIM) Technologies: A Design Company Perspective

by Marius Reizgevičius, Leonas Ustinovičius, Diana Cibulskienė, Vladislavas Kutut and Lukasz Nazarko

Sustainability 2018, 10(3), 600; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10030600 - 26 Feb 2018

Cited by 54 | Viewed by 18255

Abstract

The aim of this article is to enhance the understanding of how design companies perceive the benefits of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technologies application. BIM is recognized in the literature as a (potentially) powerful driver leading the construction sector towards sustainability. However, for [...] Read more.

The aim of this article is to enhance the understanding of how design companies perceive the benefits of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technologies application. BIM is recognized in the literature as a (potentially) powerful driver leading the construction sector towards sustainability. However, for design companies, the choice to invest in BIM technologies is basically an economic one. Specifically, a design company assesses economic benefits and efficiency improvements thanks to the application of BIM technologies. The article discusses the return on investments (ROI) in BIM technologies and reviews ROI calculation methodologies proposed by other authors. In order to evaluate BIM return on investment correctly practical ROI calculations are carried out. Appropriate methods, together with the relevant variables for ROI calculation, are developed. The study allows for adjusting the calculation method making it more accurate and understandable using the Autodesk Revit based ROI calculation of the first year. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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19 pages, 612 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Construction Industry in Cambodia: Awareness, Drivers and Barriers

by Serdar Durdyev, Edmundas Kazimieras Zavadskas, Derek Thurnell, Audrius Banaitis and Ali Ihtiyar

Sustainability 2018, 10(2), 392; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10020392 - 2 Feb 2018

Cited by 129 | Viewed by 18411

Abstract

Although sustainability is of utmost importance, anecdotal evidence suggests that the concept is not adequately implemented in many developing countries. This paper investigates industry stakeholders’ awareness of the current state of, factors driving, and barriers hindering the adoption of sustainable construction (SC) in [...] Read more.

Although sustainability is of utmost importance, anecdotal evidence suggests that the concept is not adequately implemented in many developing countries. This paper investigates industry stakeholders’ awareness of the current state of, factors driving, and barriers hindering the adoption of sustainable construction (SC) in Cambodia. Using an empirical questionnaire survey targeting local construction professionals, respondents were invited to rate their level of awareness, knowledge and understanding of SC, as well as to rate the level of importance of 31 drivers and 10 barriers identified from the seminal literature. The data set was subjected to the relative importance index method. The results suggest that the industry-wide adoption of SC practices is poor, which is believed to be due to a lack of awareness and knowledge, and reluctance to adopt new sustainable technologies. Furthermore, more efforts must be put into the selection of more durable materials for the extension of buildings’ lives and to minimize material consumption, as well as to develop energy-efficient buildings with minimal environmental impact and a healthy indoor environment, so that the ability of future generations to meet their own needs will not be compromised. The outcomes of this study have enriched knowledge about the current state of, drivers of, and barriers to sustainable construction in a typical developing economy. Although the outcomes of this study were a short scoping exercise, it has formed a significant base for future SC work within Cambodia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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11 pages, 8000 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Soft Asphalt and Double Otta Seal—Self-Healing Sustainable Techniques for Low-Volume Gravel Road Rehabilitation

by Audrius Vaitkus, Viktoras Vorobjovas, Faustina Tuminienė, Judita Gražulytė and Donatas Čygas

Sustainability 2018, 10(1), 198; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10010198 - 15 Jan 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5850

Abstract

Increased traffic flow on low-volume gravel roads and deficiencies of national road infrastructure, are increasingly apparent in Lithuania. Gravel roads do not comply with requirements, resulting in low driving comfort, longer travelling time, faster vehicle amortization, and dustiness. The control of dustiness is [...] Read more.

Increased traffic flow on low-volume gravel roads and deficiencies of national road infrastructure, are increasingly apparent in Lithuania. Gravel roads do not comply with requirements, resulting in low driving comfort, longer travelling time, faster vehicle amortization, and dustiness. The control of dustiness is one of the most important road maintenance activities on gravel roads. Another important issue is the assurance of required driving comfort and safety. Soft asphalt and Otta Seal technologies were proposed as a sustainable solution for the improvement of low-volume roads in Lithuania. Five gravel roads were constructed with soft asphalt, and 13 gravel roads were sealed with double Otta Seal, in 2012. The main aim of this research was to check soft asphalt and double Otta Seal’s ability to self-heal, on the basis of the results of the qualitative visual assessment of pavement defects and distress. The qualitative visual assessment was carried out twice a year following the opening of the rehabilitated road sections. The results confirmed soft asphalt and double Otta Seal’s ability to self-heal. The healing effect was more than 13% and 19% on roads with soft asphalt and double Otta Seal, respectively. In addition, on some roads, all cracks observed in spring self-healed during summer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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17 pages, 1506 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Algorithm for Modelling the Impact of the Judicial Conflict-Resolution Process on Construction Investment

by Andrej Bugajev and Olga R. Šostak

Sustainability 2018, 10(1), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10010182 - 12 Jan 2018

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3606

Abstract

In this article, the modelling of the judicial conflict-resolution process is considered from a construction investor’s point of view. Such modelling is important for improving the risk management for construction investors and supporting sustainable city development by supporting the development of rules regulating [...] Read more.

In this article, the modelling of the judicial conflict-resolution process is considered from a construction investor’s point of view. Such modelling is important for improving the risk management for construction investors and supporting sustainable city development by supporting the development of rules regulating the construction process. Thus, this raises the problem of evaluation of different decisions and selection of the optimal one followed by distribution extraction. First, the example of such a process is analysed and schematically represented. Then, it is formalised as a graph, which is described in the form of a decision graph with cycles. We use some natural problem properties and provide the algorithm to convert this graph into a tree. Then, we propose the algorithm to evaluate profits for different scenarios with estimation of time, which is done by integration of an average daily costs function. Afterwards, the optimisation problem is solved and the optimal investor strategy is obtained—this allows one to extract the construction project profit distribution, which can be used for further analysis by standard risk (and other important information)-evaluation techniques. The overall algorithm complexity is analysed, the computational experiment is performed and conclusions are formulated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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7125 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cost Based Value Stream Mapping as a Sustainable Construction Tool for Underground Pipeline Construction Projects

by Murat Gunduz and Ayman Fahmi Naser

Sustainability 2017, 9(12), 2184; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9122184 - 27 Nov 2017

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 23220

Abstract

This paper deals with application of Value Stream Mapping (VSM) as a sustainable construction tool on a real construction project of installation of underground pipelines. VSM was adapted to reduce the high percentage of non-value-added activities and time wastes during each construction stage [...] Read more.

This paper deals with application of Value Stream Mapping (VSM) as a sustainable construction tool on a real construction project of installation of underground pipelines. VSM was adapted to reduce the high percentage of non-value-added activities and time wastes during each construction stage and the paper searched for an effective way to consider the cost for studied construction of underground pipeline. This paper is unique in its way that it adopts cost implementation of VSM to improve the productivity in underground pipeline projects. The data was observed and collected from site during construction, indicating the cycle time, value added and non-value added of each construction stage. The current state was built based on these details. This was an eye-opening exercise and a process management tool as a trigger for improvement. After the current state assessment, a future state is attempted by Value Stream Mapping tool balancing the resources using a Line of Balance (LOB) technique. Moreover, a sustainable cost estimation model was developed during current state and future state to calculate the cost of underground pipeline construction. The result shows a cost reduction of 20.8% between current and future states. This reflects the importance of the cost based Value Stream Mapping in construction as a sustainable measurement tool. This new tool could be utilized in construction industry to add the sustainability and effective cost management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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2374 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of the CO₂ Emission Evaluation Tool for the Life Cycle Assessment of Concrete

by Taehyoung Kim, Sanghyo Lee, Chang U. Chae, Hyoungjae Jang and Kanghee Lee

Sustainability 2017, 9(11), 2116; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9112116 - 17 Nov 2017

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 6165

Abstract

With the goal of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 26.9% below business-as-usual by 2020, the construction industry is recognized as an environmentally harmful industry because of the large quantity of consumption and waste with which it is associated, and the industry has [...] Read more.

With the goal of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 26.9% below business-as-usual by 2020, the construction industry is recognized as an environmentally harmful industry because of the large quantity of consumption and waste with which it is associated, and the industry has therefore been requested to become more environmentally friendly. Concrete, a common construction material, is known to emit large amounts of environmentally hazardous waste during the processes related to its production, construction, maintenance, and demolition. To aid the concrete industry’s efforts to reduce its GHG emissions, this study developed a software program that can assess GHG emissions incurred over the life cycle of a concrete product, and a case study was conducted to determine the impact of the proposed concrete assessment program on a construction project. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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1260 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Aircraft Noise on Housing Prices in Poznan

by Radoslaw Trojanek, Justyna Tanas, Saulius Raslanas and Audrius Banaitis

Sustainability 2017, 9(11), 2088; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9112088 - 13 Nov 2017

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 5400

Abstract

In the paper, we analyzed the impact of aircraft noise on housing prices. We used a dataset containing geo-coded transactions for 1328 apartments and 438 single-family houses in the years 2010 to 2015 in Poznan. In this research, the hedonic method was used [...] Read more.

In the paper, we analyzed the impact of aircraft noise on housing prices. We used a dataset containing geo-coded transactions for 1328 apartments and 438 single-family houses in the years 2010 to 2015 in Poznan. In this research, the hedonic method was used in OLS (ordinary least squares), WLS (weighted least squares), SAR (spatial autoregressive model) and SEM (spatial error model) models. We found strong evidence that aircraft noise is negatively linked with housing prices, which is in line with previous studies in other parts of the world. In our research, we managed to distinguish the influence of aircraft noise on different types of housing. The noise depreciation index value we found in our study was 0.87% in the case of single-family houses, and 0.57% regarding apartments. One of the reasons for the difference in the level of impact of aircraft noise may be the fact that the buyers of apartments may be less sensitive to aircraft noise than the buyers of single-family houses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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780 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of Fuzzy DEMATEL Method for Analyzing Occupational Risks on Construction Sites

by Sukran Seker and Edmundas Kazimieras Zavadskas

Sustainability 2017, 9(11), 2083; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9112083 - 13 Nov 2017

Cited by 157 | Viewed by 11114

Abstract

The construction industry is known as a hazardous industry because of its complexity and strategic nature. Therefore, it is important to know the main causes of occupational accidents to prevent fatal occupational accidents in construction industry. At building construction sites, workers performing tasks [...] Read more.

The construction industry is known as a hazardous industry because of its complexity and strategic nature. Therefore, it is important to know the main causes of occupational accidents to prevent fatal occupational accidents in construction industry. At building construction sites, workers performing tasks are continuously exposed to risks, not only emerging from their own mistakes but also from the mistakes of their co-workers. A great deal of studies investigating risks and preventing occupational hazards for the construction industry has been carried out in the literature. The quantitative conventional methods mostly use either probabilistic techniques or statistics, or both, but they have limitations dealing with the ambiguity and fuzziness in information. In this study, to overcome these limitations, an applicable and improved approach, which helps construction managers to propose preventive measures for accidents on construction sites, is proposed to simplify the risk assessment. It is shown that the Fuzzy Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method can evaluate causal factors of occupational hazards by a cause–effect diagram and improve certain safety measures on construction sites. In addition, sensitivity analysis is conducted to verify the robustness of the results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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3499 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Construction Supply Chains through Synchronized Production Planning and Control in Engineer-to-Order Enterprises

by Patrick Dallasega and Erwin Rauch

Sustainability 2017, 9(10), 1888; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9101888 - 20 Oct 2017

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 8615

Abstract

Sustainability in the supply chain is becoming more and more important for industrial enterprises in different sectors. This research article focuses on construction supply chains (CSCs) in the Engineer-to-Order (ETO) industry, where every product is almost unique based on specific customer needs and [...] Read more.

Sustainability in the supply chain is becoming more and more important for industrial enterprises in different sectors. This research article focuses on construction supply chains (CSCs) in the Engineer-to-Order (ETO) industry, where every product is almost unique based on specific customer needs and requirements. The development of methods and approaches for more sustainable supply chain management in construction is becoming even more important. Engineering, fabrication of parts and their installation on-site are not always well synchronized in ETO supply chains. The results of such supply chains are long lead times, inefficient material transport and high and uncontrolled levels of work-in-progress (WIP). This article describes a conceptual approach to synchronize demand on-site with supply in manufacturing using the CONstant Work In Progress (ConWIP) concept from Lean Management to achieve Just-in-Time (JIT) supply. As a result, sustainable supply chains in ETO enterprises, with optimizations from an economic, ecological and social point of view, can be designed. The approach has been validated in an industrial case study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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Review

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18 pages, 22506 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Sustainability Narrative in Contemporary Architecture: Falling Short of Building a Sustainable Future

by Igor Martek, M. Reza Hosseini, Asheem Shrestha, Edmundas Kazimieras Zavadskas and Stewart Seaton

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 981; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040981 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 11881

Abstract

Sustainability has emerged, arguably, as the premiere mission of contemporary architecture. Green assessment tools abound, consultancy services flourish, buildings are marketed on the basis of sustainability performance, and government, media, and corporations seem preoccupied with assessing the quality of the built environment through [...] Read more.

Sustainability has emerged, arguably, as the premiere mission of contemporary architecture. Green assessment tools abound, consultancy services flourish, buildings are marketed on the basis of sustainability performance, and government, media, and corporations seem preoccupied with assessing the quality of the built environment through a green lens. Yet for all the effort, and indeed for all the progress made, fundamental issues resistant to the structural change that is essential for genuine sustainability remain. This paper reviews the state of play of sustainability across the urban landscape. It considers the road travelled so far, and points out some of the major challenges that lie ahead. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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15 pages, 1958 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Architect and the Paradigms of Sustainable Development: A Review of Dilemmas

by Wojciech Bonenberg and Oleg Kapliński

Sustainability 2018, 10(1), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10010100 - 3 Jan 2018

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 12318

Abstract

This article presents the architect’s attitude towards the paradigms of sustainable development. The place and role of the architect in the implementation of the multidimensional processes of sustainable design are presented. Basic dilemmas and antinomies are presented. The analysis of architects’ attitudes towards [...] Read more.

This article presents the architect’s attitude towards the paradigms of sustainable development. The place and role of the architect in the implementation of the multidimensional processes of sustainable design are presented. Basic dilemmas and antinomies are presented. The analysis of architects’ attitudes towards these problems is performed in various contexts, examining the architect’s awareness and his/her environment in view of changes under way. The article draws attention to the status of knowledge, changes in design paradigms, legislative and organizational requirements. The importance of architectural culture level, the need for training and ways to support the implementation of new design paradigms through integrated activities are indicated. The research results, regarding public awareness of architecture and sustainable development, are illustrated, with examples from Poland. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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1147 KiB

Open AccessReview

Sustainable Decision-Making in Civil Engineering, Construction and Building Technology

by Edmundas Kazimieras Zavadskas, Jurgita Antucheviciene, Tatjana Vilutiene and Hojjat Adeli

Sustainability 2018, 10(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10010014 - 22 Dec 2017

Cited by 146 | Viewed by 30493

Abstract

Sustainable decision-making in civil engineering, construction and building technology can be supported by fundamental scientific achievements and multiple-criteria decision-making (MCDM) theories. The current paper aims at overviewing the state of the art in terms of published papers related to theoretical methods that are [...] Read more.

Sustainable decision-making in civil engineering, construction and building technology can be supported by fundamental scientific achievements and multiple-criteria decision-making (MCDM) theories. The current paper aims at overviewing the state of the art in terms of published papers related to theoretical methods that are applied to support sustainable evaluation and selection processes in civil engineering. The review is limited solely to papers referred to in the Clarivate Analytic Web of Science core collection database. As the focus is on multiple-criteria decision-making, it aims at reviewing how the papers on MCDM developments and applications have been distributed by period of publishing, by author countries and institutions, and by journals. Detailed analysis of 2015–2017 journal articles from two Web of Science categories (engineering civil and construction building technology) is presented. The articles are grouped by research domains, problems analyzed and the decision-making approaches used. The findings of the current review paper show that MCDM applications have been constantly growing and particularly increased in the last three years, confirming the great potential and prospects of applying MCDM methods for sustainable decision-making in civil engineering, construction and building technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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Other

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10 pages, 4461 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

The Accelerated Window Work Method Using Vertical Formwork for Tall Residential Building Construction

by Taehoon Kim, Hyunsu Lim, Chang-Won Kim, Dongmin Lee, Hunhee Cho and Kyung-In Kang

Sustainability 2018, 10(2), 456; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10020456 - 9 Feb 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5887

Abstract

In tall residential building construction, there is a process gap between the window work and the structural work. This process gap extends the total period of the project and increases its cost. In addition, as this process gap increases external exposure to noise [...] Read more.

In tall residential building construction, there is a process gap between the window work and the structural work. This process gap extends the total period of the project and increases its cost. In addition, as this process gap increases external exposure to noise and dust, it negatively affects the environment of a site and often causes civil complaints. This paper introduces a new window work process called the accelerated window work (AWW) method, which minimizes the process gap and can reduce construction cost and duration and the number of civil complaints. We provide technical details and management elements of the AWW method with a case study that demonstrates the reductions in construction costs and duration compared with the conventional method. This work contributes to the body of knowledge in window work in tall buildings by introducing and validating a new window work method and process. The proposed method will be useful for practitioners who are under short-term constraints. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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