Is Environment the fourth construction objective? a Sri Lankan perspective

Abstract

It is believed that the construction activities cause adverse impacts to the environment. In order to protect the environment from these impacts, it has been suggested that the environment should be considered as the fourth construction objective of the project. This study tests the hypothesis "Environment is the fourth construction objective" through a statistical analysis. To test this hypothesis seven sub hypotheses are developed based on the systems suggested in the literature review: to reduce generic resources in a construction project, in order to protect the environment. To obtain the field data, a questionnaire is prepared based on the systems suggested in the literature review in order to protect the environment. And also views are obtained through this questionnaire on how to implement the actions to protect the environment during project cycle. The owners and specialists of the construction industry in Sri-Lanka are targeted as respondents to the questionnaire. Results shows that the hypothesis" Environment is the fourth construction objective" is not rejected and that owners and specialists in the construction industry are wiling to implement new construction practices to minimize the impacts to the environment. Respondents are in favour of having legislations in order to implement the measures to protect the environment due to construction projects.