Evaluating the Progress and Challenges of Environmental Sustainability in the Nigerian Construction Industry: A Comprehensive Literature Review

Abstract

This article presents a comprehensive literature review of sustainable construction practices in Nigeria, examining the progress, challenges, and opportunities within the sector over the past two decades. Through a systematic review of scholarly articles, this study identifies significant advancements in technological innovations and policy development aimed at promoting sustainability in the construction industry. However, the review also highlights persistent barriers that hinder broader adoption, including economic constraints, cultural resistance, and regulatory challenges. The findings reveal a growing trend towards the adoption of sustainable technologies and materials, supported by evolving governmental policies. Despite these positive developments, the high costs associated with green technologies, cultural preferences for traditional construction methods, and inconsistent regulatory enforcement remain substantial obstacles. The review employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative analyses to provide a nuanced understanding of the dynamics at play. Based on the results, the study offers recommendations for future research, emphasizing the need for economic analyses of sustainability investments, cultural studies on construction practices, comparative international studies, and longitudinal research to track policy effectiveness.