Empowering sustainable project management: analysing barriers in developing nations

Purpose Sustainable construction faces numerous barriers in developing countries, yet research is lacking in understanding the challenges and identifying priorities for overcoming them. This study aims to advance understanding of the barriers to sustainable project management in Iran as a representative developing country. Design/methodology/approach A comprehensive literature review identified thirty potential barriers, which informed the design of a questionnaire distributed to industry professionals. A total of 176 valid responses were collected. Exploratory factor analysis was used to extract five overarching barrier categories: (1) lack of research and education; (2) unfavourable regulatory environment; (3) unsustainable organisational culture, society and market; (4) unsustainable project norms and processes and (5) lack of innovativeness and investment. An empirical model was then developed and validated using partial least squares structural equation modelling. Findings The literature-based list of barriers provides a solid foundation for future research. Empirical analysis identified key factors influencing the transition to sustainable practices, along with their relative impacts. “lack of research and education” emerged as the most significant barrier, followed by “unsustainable organisational culture, society and market” and “unfavourable regulatory environment”. To support more sustainable construction project management in Iran, efforts must focus on a coordinated approach that strengthens knowledge, reshapes organisational culture, and informs policy. Originality/value This study synthesises prior research from developing countries and presents a distinctive empirical investigation based on insights from a broad cross-section of Iranian professionals. It offers a comprehensive view of sustainability-related challenges within Iran's construction industry and provides a basis for practical solutions – contributing both to the local context and to broader discussions relevant to other developing nations.