Application of bamboo as a sustainable construction material in sri Lankan construction industry

Abstract

The construction sector is facing significant challenges related to resource depletion, environmental degradation, and rising costs, highlighting the importance of sustainable building materials. Bamboo has received global recognition as a low-cost and renewable resource; however, its application has often been limited within Sri Lanka. This research study explored the role of bamboo as a sustainable construction material through a mixed-method approach. To incorporate both in-depth and broad insights, empirical data were obtained through a mix of seven expert interviews and a questionnaire survey with 30 practitioners. Interview data were analysed through manual content analysis, and survey responses were analysed using the Weighted Mean Rating (WMR) approach. Based on the findings, the ecological sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and local job creation features were widely adopted by the participants. The barriers identified in this research included a lack of support from the government, competition with conventional materials, and limited technical knowledge. It is evident from this study that there is an area for policy support, industry development, and strengthening capacity to mainstream bamboo in the Sri Lankan building construction industry.