Construct validation for technical sustainability as the fourth pillar for achieving sustainable construction: a case for Zimbabwe

Purpose Technological obsolescence and weak construction-related institutional frameworks within Zimbabwe’s construction sector underscore the need to develop and implement a sustainable construction model that explicitly integrates technical sustainability. This study aims to address this knowledge gap by developing and validating a stochastic sustainable construction model by delineating a fourth pillar of “technical”, to the three existing pillars of sustainability (namely, social, environmental and economic). Design/methodology/approach Model development was premised upon complexity and sustainability theories. Primary data on the relevance of sustainability indicators across the four pillars was collected through an online questionnaire survey completed by construction professionals from consultancy firms, construction companies, government bodies and academic institutions. Construct validity was demonstrated using convergent and discriminant validity. Findings Results revealed that technical sustainability (which included: policy support for decent working conditions; implementation of efficient technological advances; adequate sustainable construction practices; and adequate construction project technical management) constitutes a fourth pillar of sustainability for achieving sustainable construction. Cumulatively, the findings confirm the utility of complexity theory for interrogating sustainable construction. A major recommendation made is to allocate incentives for realising green technology and modern construction methods adoption. While the study’s findings are limited by content and context, the approach can be replicated in various countries. Originality/value This study validates technical sustainability as a fourth pillar for achieving sustainable construction in a developing country like Zimbabwe. In addition, the study exposes the contribution of sustainable indicators to the various pillars of sustainability.