Sustainability in the Age of Innovation: Negative Impacts of Jobsite Construction Technologies

The construction industry is undergoing transformation driven by the rapid advancement and adoption of emerging technologies to reshape the traditional design and construction processes. Building information modelling (BIM), internet of things (IoTs), robotics and process automation (RPA), artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning (ML), 3D-printing or additive manufacturing (AM), Exoskeletons and Wearable devices, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) promise increased visualization, productivity, efficiency, safety, and accuracy; they also introduces sustainability challenges. This study used the PRISMA method to conduct a systematic review guided by two questions. First: What are the prevalent technologies currently being used on construction jobsites, and how do they influence the sustainability of the construction process? Second: What are the specific challenges that arise from the use of emerging technologies on construction jobsites that contribute the negative sustainability outcomes environmentally, socially, and economically? Engineering Village and Web of Science were searched for peer reviewed journal articles, using the combination of keywords, “construction site”, “technology”, and “sustainability” and, screened for inclusion. The results from thematic analysis showed that challenges originating from emerging technologies on construction sites can be associated with negative sustainability impacts environmentally, socio-economically, based on their chosen application. For example, exoskeletons increase jobsite productivity and efficiency but cause long-term damage to worker health due to prolonged use. Making workers aware of this trade-off can be integrated with safety trainings, which can reduce the negative impact. By highlighting similar negative impacts, this study informs the construction industry to balance technological innovation with environmental stewardship and social responsibility.