Green Concrete: Overcoming Challenges and Limitations for Sustainable Building

Abstract

This graduation project investigates the integration of green concrete in construction projects for sustainable development. Green concrete, characterized by the use of recycled materials, reduced cement content, and environment-friendly processes, is crucial in minimizing the construction industry's environmental impact. The study addresses the central question of how green concrete can be effectively implemented in construction projects, considering industry-specific challenges.
A mixed-methods approach, incorporating literature review, an online survey, and expert interviews, was utilized. The study extends the definition of green concrete to encompass lower energy and water consumption, a longer lifespan, and contributions to environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
The results indicated moderate awareness of green concrete among industry professionals, highlighting the need for further education. Despite this, the relevance and importance of green concrete were acknowledged. Environmental considerations were found to be the most influential factors in decision-making, followed by social and economic aspects. Seven critical factors affecting the decision-making process were identified, including industry support, personal attitudes, resources, market conditions, leadership, collaboration, and communication barriers. The most significant barrier to innovation was short-term thinking.
Expert interviews reaffirmed the significance of green concrete, though they also emphasized challenges such as high costs, performance concerns, and the lack of established norms.
In response to these findings, the study introduces the Green Concrete Integration Model (GCIM), an adaptive, six-step iterative framework to streamline the incorporation of green concrete into construction projects. The GCIM focuses on adaptability and continuous improvement, addressing technical, economic, socio-cultural, and regulatory challenges through identification, estimation, planning, testing, refinement, scaling up, and monitoring. The model also stresses the importance of stakeholder management and continuous assessment of environmental, social, and economic impacts.
In conclusion, the study offers a pioneering framework in the form of GCIM to facilitate the effective implementation of green concrete, promoting sustainable advancements in the construction industry.