In a rapidly evolving world, discussions about sustainability have become more common. Nevertheless, in the housing construction sector, the frequent and casual use of the term "sustainable" may have inadvertently diluted its profound meaning. Thus, the question that gives rise to this investigation is: How do companies in the residential construction sector, which label themselves as adherents to “green” and “sustainable” practices, effectively meet these requirements? Therefore, the objective of this work is to identify gaps and difficulties present on the housing construction sector, aiming to implement measures that effectively promote sustainability, aligning with the currently established Sustainable Development Goals. The flourishing construction industry and the widespread endorsement of terms such as “green” and “sustainable” have sparked a compelling investigation into the distinction between companies that lay claim to these labels and those that do not. This research originates an exploration of the confluence of the construction sector with sustainability, drawing insights from established literature and engaging in exploratory interviews with key industry stakeholders, including administrators, engineers, and architects. These exploratory interviews, allowing the interviewee to lead the interview, provided by an unbiased perspective on housing construction processes and offer guidance for a more sustainable future. Thus, it became possible to identify several problems that arise throughout the entire construction process, which can be summarized into four groups: Financial and Economic Challenges; Political and Regulatory Challenges; Operational and Planning Challenges; Knowledge and Awareness Challenges.
Date of Award | 26 Mar 2024 |
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Original language | English |
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Awarding Institution | - Universidade Católica Portuguesa
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Supervisor | Sandra Lima Coelho (Supervisor) |
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- Sustainability
- Housing
- Green construction
- Sustainable development
- Sustainable development goals
- Mestrado em Economia Empresarial
Challenges integrating sustainability in Portuguese house construction: a path to sustainable development goals: an exploratory approach
Alonso, L. C. (Student). 26 Mar 2024
Student thesis: Master's Thesis