Mind the “sustainability” gap

Mind the “sustainability” gap: An organisational analysis on the integration of sustainability in the redevelopment of existing infrastructural assets

Atta, Omar (TU Delft Technology, Policy and Management)

Annema, J.A. (mentor)
de Bruijne, M.L.C. (graduation committee)

Delft University of Technology

Engineering and Policy Analysis

2023-11-28

This thesis explores the integration of sustainability in the Replacement and Renovation program (V&R) of Rijkswaterstaat (RWS) WNN, focusing on renewing and revitalizing aging infrastructure assets. With a substantial portion of RWS assets approaching the end of their design life, sustainability becomes crucial for continued functionality. The V&R program aims to modernize infrastructure, aligning with organizational sustainability goals. However, challenges in transitioning from innovation to formalization and standardization within the organization are observed. The study, based on literature review, desk research, and an in-depth case study with interviews, identifies gaps in stated ambition levels and a tension in defining sustainability among civil servants. Recommendations include raising ambition levels, providing clear subsidies for innovative solutions, and integrating financial project controllers within teams for effective funding strategies. The thesis emphasizes the need for contextual frameworks and concrete indicators to enhance sustainability in V&R projects, urging higher management to offer clearer guidance on sustainability goals of the V&R.

Sustainability
Infrastructure redevelopment
Organizational sustainability goals
Qualitative Research
Case study
Management & Organization

http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:32545416-d923-432d-a2f1-4a03f3b9c6aa

Student theses

master thesis

© 2023 Omar Atta