Evaluating indicators of sustainable building construction in Ghana using analytic hierarchy process

In Ghana, construction is a cornerstone behind development and economic growth. The construction industry contributes nearly 10% of the country’s gross domestic product and employs 7% of its population. However, similar to the global situation, current construction activities continue to endanger the environment thereby hampering progress toward achieving sustainable development. This study involved identifying relevant indicators that can be used to assess the sustainable performance of buildings in Ghana. With the aid of industry experts through in-person interview sessions, these indicators were grouped under seven main categories – management, energy, design, environmental impacts, materials, waste, and social impacts. The ranking process was conducted using the analytic hierarchy process approach. Pairwise comparisons were done between categories based on the Saaty Relative Importance Index, and judgment consistency was tested to avoid inconsistencies. The findings highlight the necessity for indicators such as quality control, energy sources, local infrastructure improvement, usage of renewable materials in construction, compliance with environmental legislation and building codes, disposal of chemical wastes, and local employment to be prioritized for sustainable construction to be achieved in Ghana.