A Framework for Systemic Sustainable Construction Industry Development (SSCID)

Abstract The quest by most countries to achieve sustainable construction has met with several challenges as evidenced in low goal accomplishment. This is largely due to the fact that the issues have not been addressed within the context of the CI. Using the system thinking philosophy as applied to the construction industry, it should be possible to ensure sustainable development within the entire industry which should then spearhead sustainable construction as part of its sustainable development goals (SDGs). This paper proposes a framework by which a construction industry of a country could be developed sustainably and systemically. The methodology used involved an analytic study of relevant literature, reports and other documents on the implementation and challenges in sustainable development as applied to the construction industry. It identifies the major challenges and barriers militating against the CI development which must be addressed. It also posits that the goals of sustainable CI development should be linked to the SDGs. A framework is designed by which all the development of all the systems or organisations in the CI (all firms: construction, consulting, supplying, etc.) could be achieved taking cognisance of the identifiable components of CI development. This continuous process of ensuring sustainable development of the various organisations which shall be measured, monitored and managed (The 3Ms) will provide the needed environment for sustainable construction industry among other benefits. The framework is expected to operate on a construction industry information modelling (CIIM) principle and in an environment akin to the Building information modelling (BIM).