Critical factors for implementing sustainable construction practice in HOPSCA projects: a case study in China

Abstract

Sustainable construction practice (SCP) can effectively improve the environmental and social performance of construction projects. However, HOPSCA is largely overlooked in previous studies on SCP. HOPSCA represents a new kind of urban complex, integrating various types of developments such as hotel, office, park, shopping mall, convention and apartment. This research aims to investigate critical factors affecting the implementation of SCP in HOPSCA projects. A case study approach was employed to analyze a high-profile HOPSCA project that adopted various SCPs in China. The key project participants were interviewed, followed by critically reviewing related project documents in order to identify the critical factors for applying SCP. Interpretive structure modeling (ISM) and Matrice d’Impacts croises-multipication appliqué an classment (MICMAC) techniques were employed to explore the interactions among different factors and classify these factors according to their driving and dependence power. A total of 17 critical factors were identified as a useful checklist for implementing SCP in HOPSCA projects. A structural model was developed to reflect the interactions among various factors. Furthermore, a factor classification was achieved to formulate strategies for enhancing current SCP. These findings provide useful guidance for practitioners to adopt SCP in their HOPSCA projects.