Awareness of the Concept of Sustainable Development Principles among Building Construction Professionals in Asaba, Nigeria

The concept of Sustainable Development (SD) has gained popularity and prominence in theory, but it tends to be misunderstood. The conflict between theory and practice lies in the misconception of sustainable construction in Africa, with Nigeria being no exception. Therefore, the study examined the level of awareness of SD and its principles among building construction professionals in Asaba, Delta State. The study adopted a survey research design, which involved the use of questionnaires and interviews. A total of 84 questionnaires were administered, but only 68 responses were validated for analysis. Data collected were analyzed using the Relative Importance Index (RII). The study found that most respondents and professionals are aware of the concept of Sustainable Development and its principles in the study area, which corresponds to an RII of 1.0. Despite this awareness, the concept of SD tends to be neglected and underplayed in Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria. Consequentially, sustainable development and sustainability are not adequately addressed during construction phases. Based on these findings, it is concluded that the concept of SD is not well understood or fully appreciated by professionals in the study area. As a result, the concept remains normative, subjective, and ambiguous to them. Therefore, it is recommended that construction regulatory bodies, professional associations, and institutions of higher learning promote and organize training, education, and sensitization programs focused on SD principles in construction practices. Such initiatives would enhance the existing knowledge of construction professionals regarding SD.