Industry stakeholder perceptions on water management in construction industry in Sri Lanka : preliminary survey

Abstract

In Sri Lanka, there has not yet been any widely published research that describes sustainable strategies to build up water efficient culture in construction* industry. Prudent use of natural resources is one of the principles of sustainable development. Thus, it is important to encompass water efficient culture in construction industry like many other industries, because it uses water in almost all activities. Although, construction industry inclusively integrates resource efficiency, less attention has been paid on water conseivation and management aspects yet to come. This is an ongoing research and ultimate aim is to develop a sustainable strategic framework to enhance water efficient culture in building construction industry. This paper intends to provide insights on how industiy stakeholder perception on the current water management practices in construction industry. The research method adopted for the study was qualitative. Unstructured .interviews were conducted among the different disciplines who were involved during the construction project life cycle. The study integrated voices of, project managers, site engineers and quantity surveyors. The preliminary survey findings showed that in construction sites, sustainable aspects are not yet implementing properly in terms of water consumption and identified many critical aspects need to be considered. Site practice, worker behavior and attitudes, stakeholder priority and responsibilities and integrity of sustainable concepts during the design and construction are few important aspects among them. In addition, the authors believed individual and management commitment are critical factors that impact on enhancing water efficient culture in construction sites. Further, the paper suggested the requirement of water management culture during the construction to meet sustainable goals and to provide fewer burdens to the water sources in Sri Lanka.