Multi-criteria decision model for green technology adoption in housing delivery in Ghana

Purpose Green technologies (GTs) have become prime approach to reducing the environmental impact of housing and related buildings through sustainable housing delivery. However, there is lack of clear criteria that support the adoption and selection of GTs for housing development. Hence, the purpose of this study was to develop a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) model for adoption and selection of GTs for housing delivery. Design/methodology/approach From a critical literature review, a taxonomy of GTs and adoption criteria were identified. A questionnaire survey elicited from professionals in the sustainability and housing delivery supply chain in Ghana with a minimum of 10 years professional practice. Through the use of multi-attribute utility theory and analytical hierarchy process, the elicited data from the survey were used to develop a MCDM model for the adoption and selection of GTs for housing development. Findings The results revealed that reusability and recyclability of materials, reduction of impact on environment (gases, particulate matter, exhaust and noise), energy, design and easy to operate and maintainability and operational cost emerged as the four highest weighting of all the criteria considered. In addition, energy-, material- and water-efficient GTs were found to be the top significant technologies for adoption based on their utility scores. Indoor environmental quality and systems control GTs were noted to be third and fourth significant based on the model. It was also noted that the criteria that influenced various typologies of GTs adoption varied. Practical implications The findings offer insightful clarity that will give confidence to decisions regarding GT adoption in Ghana and thus can motivate the needed policies, regulations and practices to optimize its benefits in housing delivery. Originality/value This study has provided understanding to the significant criteria that impact and can guide the adoption of GTs for housing delivery in Ghana. Hence, the insight given can be extremely useful in policy and regulatory regimes that can stimulate and prioritize the adoption of GTs and erase the current fuzziness in their decision-making.