Lean management for the sustainability of projects in construction sector

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the challenges hindering the adoption of lean management (LM) practices in mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) projects in Pakistan, and to propose a framework for enhancing sustainability outcomes. Design/methodology/approach A mixed-methods approach was used, combining questionnaire surveys and semistructured interviews with professionals registered with the Pakistan Engineering Council and the Pakistan Council of Architects and Town Planners. By adopting mixed-methods approach, quantitative findings provide generalizable patterns, and qualitative expert interviews are used to interpret, contextualize and explain these statistical relationships. Integration occurs at the interpretation stage, where interview insights are triangulated with survey outcomes to enhance validity and contextual depth. Findings The study identifies key obstacles to LM implementation, including limited awareness, reliance on traditional practices, resistance to change and outdated documentation. It shows a significant link between stakeholders’ knowledge of lean and its successful use in MEP projects. Research limitations/implications The research is limited to MEP projects within the Pakistani construction industry. Future studies could broaden the scope by exploring cross-country comparisons or integrating lean with digital tools. Practical implications The proposed framework provides actionable insights for policymakers, contractors and project managers by emphasizing the need to formally integrate lean practices into contractual processes to optimize resource utilization and improve project delivery performance in MEP projects. Social implications By enhancing efficiency and sustainability in MEP operations, the study contributes to improve industry practices that can benefit economically and support sustainable development goals. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is one of the first to look at the challenges of implementing lean in MEP projects in Pakistan. It offers theoretical and practical insights that encourage sustainable construction.