SIGNIFICANT FACTORS INHIBITING THE USE OF SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS AND PRACTICES IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

The construction industry in Kenya is increasingly being called upon to align with global sustainability goals through the adoption of environmentally responsible materials and practices. Despite the evident environmental and economic benefits of sustainable construction, uptake in the Kenyan built environment remains limited. This study investigates the inhibiting factors affecting the adoption of sustainable construction materials and practices. Using a descriptive research design, data were collected from 439 respondents through structured questionnaires, targeting key professionals across the construction value chain. Quantitative analysis, including frequency distribution, mean scores, and standard deviation computations, was used to assess stakeholder perceptions of nine commonly cited adoption barriers. The results reveal that lack of appropriate skills, regulatory challenges, high initial costs, uncertainty about material performance, and limited market demand are the most significant constraints, with most barriers receiving mean scores above 3.8 on a 5-point Likert scale. The findings confirm that systemic issues, spanning human capital, policy coherence, financial incentives, and market perceptions, continue to impede the transition toward sustainability. It is concluded that these barriers are interconnected and require coordinated interventions. The study recommends curriculum reform, regulatory harmonization, targeted fiscal incentives, enhanced awareness campaigns, inclusive policy development, and continuous research to facilitate the broader adoption of sustainable construction practices in Kenya.