Sustainable Procurement in Construction

The construction sector is a major contributor to global greenhouse-gas emissions and resource consumption, representing a critical target for decarbonization and resilience efforts. Integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into infrastructure decision-making increases transparency and long-term value but introduces complexity due to data heterogeneity and multi-stakeholder objectives. This paper examines the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), including supervised learning, reinforcement learning, Bayesian inference, and multi-objective optimization, to optimize sustainable construction systems while explicitly incorporating ESG metrics. Methods for emissions and cost forecasting, uncertainty quantification, adaptive design optimization, and trade-off analysis are synthesized, with a case example in low-carbon concrete mix design using life-cycle assessment principles. Principal challenges such as ESG data uncertainty, model interpretability, and scalability are discussed, and actionable recommendations are proposed, including standardized ESG reporting, adoption of explainable AI, hybrid ML-LCA workflows, and policy incentives to de-risk innovation. By aligning AI methods with ESG frameworks, this approach advances resilient, economically viable, and verifiably sustainable infrastructure practice.

Concrete is the second largest consumed material for construction due to encouraged growth of infrastructure worldwide. The preparation of concrete requires large amount of concrete making materials like cement, sand and coarse aggregate. Sand and Coarse aggregate are naturally available, but cement production involves heating of limestone and other materials to high temperatures leading to release of CO 2 which in terns responsible for emission of greenhouse gases. Also, the utilization of natural resources leads to scarcity. This results in the creation of vast interest in the research area to utilize waste materials which could satisfy the criteria of strength and performance. Pond ash, a waste produced from thermal power plant, is one such material that can be used as a replacement of cement as well as fine aggregate partially or fully. To promote sustainable construction, study of physical and chemical properties of such waste material as a constituent in concrete is essential which ultimately addresses the issues related to disposal, environmental and ecological problems. Pond ash is potentially usable, but its properties depend on various factors like source of coal, type of boilers, type of coal grinding process adapted at power plant etc. This research focuses on the physical and chemical properties of pond ash like particle size distribution, specific gravity, bulk density, loss on ignition etc. to know its suitability for utilization in concrete.

Public procurement plays a pivotal role in shaping economic development and governance, particularly within emerging economies such as Nigeria. The Public Procurement Act (PPA) of 2007 was instituted to reform Nigeria's procurement system by enhancing transparency, competitiveness, and accountability. This study employs a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the Act's effectiveness, integrating survey data from 200 procurement stakeholders across federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in Abuja with in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Quantitative analyses, including regression and chisquare tests, indicate moderate awareness of the Act but underscore significant implementation challenges, notably political interference, capacity gaps, weak legal enforcement, and limited adoption of digital tools. The Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) is constrained by insufficient autonomy and resources, leading to inconsistent compliance. Although PPA provides a robust legal framework, its practical impact is impeded by systemic institutional weaknesses and informal practices. The study recommends enhancing enforcement capacity, increasing the adoption of e-procurement, and developing a specialized procurement cadre. The findings contribute to the literature on procurement governance and propose reform pathways to improve procurement efficiency and public trust in Nigeria.

This study explores optimal budgeting practices for procurement departments in public sector institutions, using the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) in Nigeria as a case study. Employing a mixed-methods research design that integrates surveys and interviews, this study examines critical inefficiencies in the procurement budgeting process of NESREA. These inefficiencies encompass delays in approval workflows, misalignment with strategic objectives, inaccuracies in data, and inadequate responsiveness to market fluctuations. The research is anchored in the frameworks of Public Choice Theory, Resource-Based View, and Performance-Based Budgeting, which elucidate the institutional, behavioral, and operational challenges identified. The findings indicate that while NESREA exhibits moderate effectiveness and compliance, there are evident deficiencies in transparency, risk management, and interdepartmental coordination. Based on empirical evidence, the study advocates for the digitization of approval processes, improved interdepartmental communication, the adoption of automated budgeting tools, the establishment of contingency reserves, and a closer alignment of budgeting efforts with national development goals. These recommendations are intended to enhance procurement performance, financial accountability, and strategic coherence. The implications of this study extend beyond NESREA, providing practical insights for broader public financial management reform in Nigeria. It contributes to the body of knowledge by linking theoretical models with practical applications and offering a context-specific framework for improving budgeting practices in environmental and regulatory public institutions.

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) have become an essential response to Nigeria's massive infrastructure gaps, especially in health, power, and transportation. However, navigating the PPP terrain isn't without challenges. Procurement under PPPs is often slowed down by weak institutions, poor technology usage, financial constraints, and corruption. This study explored how these obstacles shape procurement outcomes in Nigeria's PPP efforts. Drawing from the views of 391 stakeholders engaged in PPP projects-particularly across Ghana's infrastructure space-we analyzed key bottlenecks using descriptive statistics and onesample t-tests. The results were striking: corruption (t= 57.217, p < 0.001) and capacity gaps significantly hurt procurement efficiency. Slow tech adoption further dampens transparency and execution. All five problem areas tested proved statistically relevant (p < 0.001). For Nigeria to benefit from PPPs as a sustainable path to infrastructure growth, deep structural reform is needed-particularly in reducing corruption, strengthening institutions, and embracing e-procurement and financial innovation. Countries like Nigeria can't afford to delay these changes, as they hold the key to unlocking transparent partnerships and successful infrastructure delivery.

Nigeria has faced continual conflicts in recent decades, involving not only state actors but
also non-state actors such as armed groups, religious leaders, and community militias.
Despite these actors’ significant roles, traditional state-led approaches, which rely heavily on
military operations, have failed to address the root causes of conflict, leaving social and
political grievances unresolved. This study examines peace-building as an alternative
approach to conflict resolution, with a focus on the potential of engaging non-state actors in
conflict resolution. The study builds upon key theoretical frameworks, including Lederach’s
conflict transformation theory, which advocates addressing underlying structures and
relationships that fuel violence. Drawing on secondary data from journals, books, internet
sources and relevant literature, the study highlights how peace-building transcends state
centric methods by prioritizing dialogue, reconciliation, and local participation. By
integrating non-state actors who possess local authority, knowledge, and influence peace
building can bridge gaps between communities and formal state structures. However, the
study also identifies challenges, such as the dual role of non-state actors as both peace
builders and spoilers and the lack of trust between the state and local communities. Despite
these challenges, the study argues that an inclusive, community-based peace-building
approach can break cycles of violence and promote social cohesion, offering a more
legitimate and effective pathway to lasting peace in Nigeria. The findings underscore the
urgent need for policymakers and peace practitioners to shift from exclusive, state-led
security responses to participatory frameworks that recognize the vital roles of non-state
actors in addressing the complex roots of conflict.

This study investigates the adoption and efficacy of innovative procurement methods in promoting sustainability and efficiency within Nigeria's public infrastructure sector. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, it combines survey data with interviews and document reviews across key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics and ANOVA, alongside thematic analysis, reveal that while Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) and e-procurement demonstrate potential, traditional procurement methods prevail due to institutional inertia, capacity gaps, and regulatory deficiencies. The findings indicate moderate engagement with sustainability, predominantly focused on environmental objectives, while economic and social dimensions are largely neglected. Barriers such as bureaucratic inefficiencies, inadequate training, financial constraints, and political interference persist across MDAs. The study concludes that a comprehensive reform agenda-emphasizing regulatory modernization, digital procurement infrastructure, and capacity building-is essential. Recommendations include targeted legal reforms, expanded training programs, promotion of inclusive sustainability metrics, and improved PPP frameworks. This research provides novel insights into procurement reform in developing economies, offering a data-driven framework to enhance transparency, innovation, and developmental impact in Nigeria's public sector.

Sustainable practice is considered a significant practice in modern construction for infrastructure development as it promotes economic growth and improves the quality of life. Despite the importance of sustainable practices in construction, few studies have explored the implementation of
these practices in low-income countries like Malawi. Therefore, this study aims to assess the extent of the implementation of sustainable construction practices (SCPs) in building infrastructure projects in Malawi. Following an in-depth literature review, 22 sustainable construction practices and 13 drivers were identified. A survey of 193 construction professionals was conducted, and the data were analysed using descriptive statistics and the Relative Importance Index (RII). The findings revealed that economic practices such as efficient allocation of resources, use of quick construction tools and a coordinated supply chain in the construction process are widely implemented with emphasis on the economic aspect of sustainability for infrastructure projects in Malawi. The study further identified global trends and industry standards, social and health benefits, market demand and awareness and access to green technologies and innovation as the main drivers for adopting and implementing SCPs in Malawi. This study provides policymakers and stakeholders with valuable insights to develop policy regulations that would improve the sustainability performance of infrastructure projects.

Supplier selection plays a crucial role in ensuring efficient project delivery in the construction industry. However, many construction firms in Nigeria struggle with delays, cost overruns, and quality issues due to ineffective supplier management. This study evaluates the impact of supplier selection factors on project delivery within the Nigerian construction industry. Suppliers play a critical role in ensuring the timely delivery of essential materials and services, and their selection can significantly influence project timelines, costs, and overall quality. The population of this study consisted of workers in the construction industry. The sample consisted of 133 workers who have been engaged in line of activities for construction work in selected Southeast states of Nigeria. Despite the recognized importance of supplier selection, the specific factors that affect project delivery in Nigeria remain underexplored. The research focuses on key supplier selection criteria such as reliability, cost, performance, and sustainability, examining their influence on construction project outcomes in Abia, Ebonyi, and Imo states in Southeast Nigeria. Using a mixedmethods approach, the study combines qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys from construction professionals, aiming to uncover how supplier reliability and performance impact project budget and quality. Frequency percentage table was used to provide answers to the research questions while the hypotheses were tested using Regression Analysis at 0.05 level of significance and a calculated degree of freedom (df). The findings suggest that while supplier reliability does not significantly predict quality project delivery, other factors such as effective project management and quality assurance processes play a more prominent role in ensuring successful outcomes. Similarly, the relationship between supplier performance and project budget cost was found to be insignificant. The research highlights the need for construction firms to focus on robust internal management strategies, supplier performance monitoring, and quality control measures rather than relying solely on supplier selection. The study concludes with practical recommendations for improving supplier selection processes and offers directions for future research to explore further nuances in supplier relationships and their effect on construction project success.

Construction scholars suggest that procurement processes can be used as mechanisms to change construction industry practices. This paper discusses industry changes as a response to the calls for integration of sustainability ideals into construction practices. Because major infrastructure construction has been identified as a key producer of greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE), this study explores collaborative procurement models that have been used to facilitate mitigation of GHGE. The study focuses on the application of non-price incentives and rewards that work together as a binary mechanism. Data were collected using mixed-methods: government document content analysis was complemented with data collected through focus groups and individual interviews with both clients and contractors. This report includes examples of greening procurement agendas for three Australian road authorities relating to collaborative procurement project delivery models. Three collaborative procurement models...

The development and progress of a country heavily relies on the construction industry, which creates the necessary infrastructure to support all other sectors. This is demonstrated by the significant number of resources that are invested in the construction industry each year. Procurement activities play a key role in managing construction projects, from the planning stage to the execution and closure. However, traditional paper-based procurement practices are still prevalent in Ghana, resulting in numerous challenges. In light of these challenges, a study was conducted to investigate the factors that influence the adoption of sustainable electronic procurement solutions and their contribution to sustainable project delivery. To achieve this objective, the study employed a quantitative research methodology and purposive sampling to obtain data from 40 out of 70 contractors and consultants in Accra using questionnaires. Cronbach's Alpha was utilized to evaluate the consistency and dependability of the Likert Scale which was deemed reliable. Kendall's Coefficient of Concordance was applied to measure the level of agreement among the participants in their rankings, but the outcome indicated a lack of consensus among respondents. The rankings were sorted using RII to identify the most important benefits and the top three benefits are High efficiency, Cost savings in procurement process and Reduction in order fulfilment cycle time. This study contributes to the expanding understanding of electronic procurement and its relationship to sustainable construction, filling a gap in the literature. The outcomes of the research will inspire further investigation in this field.

The aim of this study was to explore the extent of current sustainable procurement (SP) practices, including barriers and opportunities, within Malaysian industry contexts. Analysis of the data uncovered three major findings. Firstly both public and private Malaysian organizations emphasised various dimensions of sustainable procurement that contradict the results from similar studies in other more developed countries. Secondly, the study uncovered significant variations between public and private organizations in their sustainable procurement practices. Finally, in both the public and private sector, financial pressures posed the most significant barrier to SP implementation, whilst issues of organizational efficiency and transparency provided optimal opportunities for implementing sustainable procurement practices.

The paper explores the complex interplay of climate change, environmental degradation, resource conflicts, and social inequalities in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Drawing on focus group discussions, literature review, and other data sources, the study highlights the importance of understanding local experiences and perspectives in promoting adaptive capacity, resilience, and peace in the region. The findings suggest that traditional knowledge and practices can play a valuable role in addressing climate change and security challenges, and that marginalised groups, including women and youth, are often excluded from decision-making processes. The research also reveals the potential for innovative community-driven initiatives to support adaptive capacity and resilience in the Niger Delta, and highlights the importance of participatory and democratic governance approaches for addressing the underlying causes of resource conflicts and environmental degradation. In conclusion, this study contributes to our understanding of the complex and interconnected challenges facing the Niger Delta region, and suggests that promoting resilience and peace requires a holistic and multi-faceted approach that draws on local knowledge and practices, engages marginalised groups, and fosters democratic governance.

Purpose: Contractor Development Programmes (CDPs) are aimed at creating an enabling environment for the survival and sustainability of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) contractors. Albeit, literature informs that the opinions of beneficiaries of these CDPs have not been adequately evaluated to access the impact of these CDPs. The purpose of this study was to establish the extent to which these CDPs have helped to improve contractors' management skills and also the extent to which the CDPs have ensured contractors' upgrade in CIDB registration status. Design/Methodology: A questionnaire survey, made up of close-ended as well as openended questions were administered to the respondents to establish their views on the achievements of the CDPs, the statistical programme SPSS was used to analyse the data, Cronbach Alpha Coefficient was used to test the reliability of the data collected. And the correlation between the CDPs and their intended outcomes were analysed using the T-test. The results from the research showed that the CDPs were achieving their objectives of improving of management skills and ensuring contractor upgrade in CIDB registration status. The important observation was that continuous contractor mentorship (CCM) must be made an integral part of every successful CDP. Originality/value: This study has revealed that to improve the benefits of CDPs, all implementing stakeholders must introduce CCM into their programmes instead of the once of mentorship programmes that currently exist. The research focused on contractors as a whole and did not separate them into their fields of specialities. The questionnaire survey was conducted in only Gauteng Province of South Africa and not the entire country. The study will assist in guiding CDP stakeholders of the need to modify the programmes to meet the beneficiaries' objectives.

Sustainable procurement has emerged as a critical practice for ensuring environmentally, socially, and economically responsible operations in various industries, including civil engineering construction. This project explores the adoption and implementation of sustainable procurement practices within Bangladesh's construction sector, which plays a pivotal role in the country’s economic development but also presents significant environmental challenges. Through a review of global trends and challenges in sustainable procurement, as well as the specific barriers faced by the construction industry in Bangladesh, the study identifies key factors influencing the success of sustainable procurement. This includes drivers such as regulatory frameworks, stakeholder engagement, financial incentives, and the adoption of green public procurement policies. However, barriers like higher investment costs, lack of professional knowledge, and inadequate support from senior management persist, impeding widespread adoption. This research applies a qualitative methodology, gathering data from 37 professionals across various disciplines, and analyzes these inputs using the Relative Importance Index (RII). The results reveal the most significant technical, economic, environmental, and social aspects of sustainable procurement, emphasizing the critical need for enhanced policy support, capacity building, and strategic interventions. The findings of this study aim to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on sustainable procurement in Bangladesh, offering recommendations for overcoming challenges and unlocking the potential of sustainability in construction procurement. By aligning procurement practices with sustainability goals, the construction industry in Bangladesh can not only mitigate its environmental impact but also achieve long-term economic and social benefits.

This study investigates the influence of logistics factors on the procurement of construction materials in Lokoja, Kogi State, aiming to identify and rank the critical elements affecting material procurement in building projects. A total of 250 questionnaires were distributed across nineteen neighborhoods in Lokoja using a random sampling technique. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while the T-test assessed the significance of identified logistics factors. The findings revealed that seventeen logistics factors influence material procurement, with seven factors emerging as the most significant: on-time delivery, transportation challenges, material misdelivery, delivery inaccuracies, order processing, storage capacity limitations, and ineffective information flow. These factors were ranked by their impact on procurement processes, with hypothesis testing confirming a statistically significant relationship between logistics factors and material procurement efficiency. The study concludes that effective management of key logistics factors is essential to avoid cost overruns, delays, and material wastage. It recommends that project managers prioritize better coordination among stakeholders to address logistics-related challenges, ensuring materials are delivered efficiently and on time.
Keywords: Logistics factor; Procurements; On time delivery; Information flows; Lokoja

Sustainable procurement is essential as it ensures organisations consider environmental, social, and economic impacts when acquiring materials, goods, and services from project inception to completion. Many studies have explored sustainability issues in the construction industry. However, few have investigated the challenges of sustainable procurement. This paper aims to assess the challenges of sustainable procurement practices in Northern Ghana. A survey conducted among fifty (50) construction professionals with indepth knowledge of sustainable procurement revealed that political interference, lack of knowledge and awareness, and high cost of sustainable procurement are the main challenges hindering the implementation of sustainable procurement in Northern Ghana. The study further recommended enforcement of sustainable procurement policies and laws, promoting independence of procurement entities, and subsidising sustainable materials as mitigation strategies for implementing sustainable procurement. This paper enables project managers and policymakers to efficiently and effectively implement strategies to improve sustainable project delivery in the construction industry.

Abstract: Having an effective mentoring programme in place in the construction industry is critical to the development and growth of emerging contractors as well as the industry as a whole. A survey was undertaken among the mentees who attended a specific mentoring ...

Over the last three decades, numerous procurement techniques have been one of the highlights of the Construction Management (CM) for ventures, administration contracting, venture management as well as design and construct. Due to the development and utilization of those techniques, various researchers have explored the criteria for their choice and their execution in terms of time, cost and quality. Nevertheless, there is a lack of giving an account on the relationship between the procurement techniques and the progressed related issues, for example, supply chain, sustainability, innovation and technology development, lean construction, constructability, value management, Building Information Modelling (BIM) as well as e-procurement. Through chosen papers from the reputable CM-related academic journals, the specified scopes of these issues are methodically assessed with the objective to explore the status and trend in procurement related research. The result of this paper contributes theoretically as well as practically to the researchers and industrialist in order to be aware and appreciate the development of procurement techniques. .

This paper focus on the requirements and benefits of the use of collaborative procurement by exploring literature on the meaning collaborative procurement, it's emergent, benefits and requirements associated with it's adoption. The paper concluded that the use of collaborative procurement system needs to be incorporated by contracting firms and organizations operating in the twenty-first century due to the complexity, technology innovations and the need for quick delivery of contract been awarded by clients as this will enhance effectiveness, efficiencies, and transparency in the execution and delivery system of a contract.

Public infrastructure-based clients implement extant procurement strategies without carefully evaluating particular requirements to select and adapt the most appropriate practices that cultivate the best and most practical benefits of a chosen procurement strategy. The study explored procurement strategies for managing and optimizing construction tender-price levels. The study is an exploratory case study utilizing a desktop review of numerous publications, public domain reports, and person-to-person interviews. The choice of methodology corresponds to the specific nature of the research environment and phenomena characterization of the lack of detailed primary research. The research involves a robust examination of documents and trend analysis of public procurement. It results from extensive extant literature, nine case study packages of improved rural connectivity projects (IRCP), and 21 expert interviews. Improved rural connectivity project (IRCP) is a World Bank-funded project for improving Zambia's rural road accessibility and strengthening institutional capacity. Eight fundamental characteristics related to a successful procurement strategy identified are cash flow assurance, guaranteed payments, and completeness of designs. Other characteristics include level and type of competition, contractor's breakeven point, adopted procurement process (work packaging), nature of government support, and protecting market share. The study further identifies central areas for developing a successful and responsive procurement strategy: procurement planning, preferential procurement policy (protectionism), and establishing differential procurement laws. These findings form an appropriate basis for developing relevant procurement practices that improve a procurement strategy for managing construction bid prices. The study indicates the possibility of further exploiting the potential of current procurement strategies for managing construction prices by suggesting a link between poor tender-price management and a high occurrence of procurementrelated lapses. The findings highlight gaps only identifiable in tender-price management studies when taking a client perspective and considering the procurement context. This study assists to develop procurement strategies that enhance the chance of deriving value for money while maintain reasonable price levels.

In the rapidly evolving financial services sector, the demand for agile, scalable, and secure solutions has driven the adoption of cloud technologies. Amazon Web Services (AWS), with its comprehensive suite of cloud services, offers a robust platform for full stack development tailored to the financial industry. This paper explores the application of AWS in developing full stack solutions for financial services, focusing on how it addresses industry-specific challenges and enhances operational efficiency. AWS provides a wide range of services that facilitate the creation of end-to-end solutions for financial services, including compute resources, storage solutions, databases, and advanced analytics tools. Key services such as Amazon EC2, AWS Lambda, and Amazon RDS support scalable and resilient application architectures. For financial services, which require real-time data processing and high availability, AWS enables the development of robust systems that can handle large volumes of transactions and data with minimal latency. One of the core advantages of using AWS for financial services is its emphasis on security and compliance. AWS offers built-in security features such as encryption, identity and access management, and regular compliance audits. These features help financial institutions adhere to stringent regulatory requirements and safeguard sensitive financial data. Additionally, AWS's scalable infrastructure supports the dynamic needs of financial services startups. Services like Amazon Elastic Beanstalk and AWS CloudFormation simplify the deployment and management of applications, allowing startups to rapidly iterate and deploy new features without significant upfront investment. This agility is crucial in a competitive financial landscape where innovation and speed are critical to success. The integration of AWS with other technologies, such as machine learning and big data analytics, further enhances its value for financial services. Tools like Amazon SageMaker enable the development of predictive models and data-driven insights, which are essential for fraud detection, risk management, and customer personalization. By leveraging these capabilities, financial institutions can make more informed decisions and improve their service offerings. Despite the benefits, challenges remain, including managing costs and ensuring effective resource utilization. Future research should explore strategies for optimizing AWS usage in financial services, addressing these challenges, and leveraging emerging AWS features to stay ahead in the market.

In a globalized world, soft skills-particularly communication is crucial for success in multicultural and diverse professional environments. As businesses increasingly operate across borders, technical expertise alone is insufficient. Professionals must navigate complex interpersonal dynamics, adapt to different cultural contexts, and communicate effectively across language barriers. This article explores the importance of soft skills, with a focus on communication in global interactions. It examines verbal and non-verbal communication, the role of technology in bridging distances, and the challenges posed by cultural differences. In these paper soft skills such as emotional intelligence, adaptability, and problem-solving are discussed as essential tools for global success. As globalization continues to reshape the workforce, these skills will remain critical in fostering collaboration, understanding, and innovation. The article underscores the need for continuous skill development and cultural sensitivity to thrive in the interconnected global marketplace.

În Strategia industrială a UE din martie 2020, actualizată în mai 2021, se evidențiază trei motoare ale transformării industriei comunitare: tranziția ecologică, tranziția digitală și competitivitatea pe scena internațională. Pe fondul sporirii dependențelor strategice care afectează interesele de bază ale UE, în special în ceea ce privește sănătatea, securitatea și siguranța, precum și accesul la materii prime și tehnologii esențiale, Comisia Europeană evidențiază nevoia de consolidare a autonomiei strategice deschise a UE, prin acorduri cu parteneri internaționali cu vederi similare și alianțe industriale în domenii strategice. Pornind de la analiza rolului politicilor industriale dintr-o perspectivă istorică, prezentul articol rezumă obiectivele cheie ale noii Strategii industriale, punând accentul pe transformările, oportunitățile și riscurile actuale pentru industria "verde".

The housing market finds itself facing an emergency due to the difference between supply and demand, in particular in the social housing market. Faced with a demand for cheap social housing, that runs the risk of creating new situations of poverty and profound social marginalisation, the residential buildings market is proposing, at the medium and high end, to turn to the private market and a set of requirements and questions that are more easy to resolve. At the dawning of a new era in social housing, the quantity requirements have to ...

A search engine operates on complex algorithms that require considerable computing power and energy. Traditional search engines utilize conventional energy sources to run their operations, contributing to significant costs. By contrast, a wind powered search engine utilizes wind energy to operate its servers and data centers. This shift to renewable energy not only reduces the carbon footprint of internet searches but also sets a precedent for other tech companies to adopt similar eco-conscious practices. The reliance on wind energy can mitigate the environmental impact associated with energy consumption in digital services.

Construction scholars suggest that procurement processes can be used as mechanisms to change construction industry practices. This paper discusses industry changes as a response to the calls for integration of sustainability ideals into construction practices. Because major infrastructure construction has been identified as a key producer of greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE), this study explores collaborative procurement models that have been used to facilitate mitigation of GHGE. The study focuses on the application of non-price incentives and rewards that work together as a binary mechanism. Data were collected using mixed-methods: government document content analysis was complemented with data collected through focus groups and individual interviews with both clients and contractors. This report includes examples of greening procurement agendas for three Australian road authorities relating to collaborative procurement project delivery models. Three collaborative procurement models...

The Australian Government and most Australian road authorities have set ambitious greenhouse gas emission (GHGe) reduction targets for the near future, many of which have translated into action plans. However, previous research has shown that the various Australian state road authorities are at different stages of implementing 'green' initiatives in construction planning and development, with considerable gaps in their monitoring, tendering, and contracting. This study illustrates the differences between procurement standards and project specific practices that aim to reduce GHGe from road construction projects in three of the largest Australian road construction clients, with a focus on the tools used, contract type and incentives for better performance.

GPP seeks to implement policy through influencing the supply and demand side of certain product markets. Within this equation, product lists can only be partially successful because they tend to target procurers rather than the market. While they provide a ready-made recipe for procurers wishing to learn GPP and bridge capacity gaps, they do little to drive private sector innovation. Companies are not incentivized to design and innovate past the minimum requirements for inclusion in the lists, and, once on the list, there is little to encourage a product's further development. Stimulating technological and product development therefore relies heavily on the continued updating of list minimum requirements, an administrative burden that suggests in reality that updates occur less frequently than is necessary. Product lists can be seen as a potential stepping stone for governments seeking to transition to GPP, offering the ability to overcome the capacity and knowledge gaps within the public sector to enable practical GPP implementation, whilst also educating and guiding the market on the design of environmentally sensitive products. To be successful however, lists and the entry requirements must be regularly and comprehensively updated to ensure correct market representation and to support innovation in product technology and design. As a stepping stone, it is important that more developed GPP practices are integrated into the list approach, including a move towards more robust price evaluation mechanisms such as life cycle costing, and capacity building across the bureaucratic levels in order to spread administrative burdens and encourage GPP take up at local levels.

This study explores the transformative impact of technology on pastoral care and counselling within the African context. Departing from traditional, in-person models, we investigate the integration of digital tools to enhance the delivery of spiritual and emotional support. Through a historical analysis of pastoral counselling in Africa and a contemporary examination of technology-mediated services, we identify opportunities and challenges in this evolving landscape. Our research employs case studies to evaluate the effectiveness of teletherapy, mHealth initiatives, and social media platforms in improving accessibility, affordability, and confidentiality. We critically assess the interplay between technology and factors such as the digital divide, privacy concerns, and cultural nuances. To optimize the benefits of technology, we propose a strategic framework encompassing training, capacity building, and collaborative partnerships. Our findings contribute to the growing discourse on technology and religion, providing actionable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers seeking to enhance pastoral counselling in Africa. The authors gave recommendations that will make for improved pastoral care and counselling services in Africa.

Background: The integration of sustainable elements in the public procurement practice in Ghana is beginning to receive attention in Ghana. This has even necessitated the amendment of the country's procurement act; Act 663 to include sustainable requirements and demands. This study assessed how environmental and social factors could be integrated into the public procurement system in Ghana and the readiness of practitioners Methods: The study was a survey. The researcher sampled purposively twenty three procurement officers from eight Ministries in Ghana. Data was analyzed descriptively. Results: In all,19 practitioners representing 82.6% of procurement practitioners affirmed to their awareness of sustainable procurement. The same (82.6%) affirmed that there was system to manage environmental impact in Ghana's procurement system. However the findings of the study demonstrates that only 47.8% of respondents believed and considered that social improvement of the populace was highly prioritized during making public procurement decisions. Conclusion: There is a strong requirement that the Public Procurement Authority build the capacity of procurement officers. Procurement officers should be trained regularly to understand the relevance and role environmental and social factors play in ensuring sustainable procurement. Again the government should fast tract with the review of the public procurement Act that seeks to entrench sustainable requirements in the public procurement practice.

Purpose-This paper investigates the impact of green construction procurement practices (GCPPs) on circular economy (CE) success by identifying environmentally sustainable procurement practices that can promote a CE in the construction industry. The goal was to promote circularity in construction through GCPPs. Design/methodology/approach-A quantitative research approach was adopted and purposively selected 100 respondents for a cross-sectional questionnaire survey. Data from the questionnaire survey were analysed using mean score ranking, One-sample t-test and regression analysis. Findings-The study found that using on-site systematic waste management, project stakeholder commitment and support for green practices and environmental requirements in technical specifications, significantly impact CE success in construction, with a 12.8% variance in CE when green procurement is practised. This implies that GCPPs have positive repercussions on CE success, where the CE success is expected to change as GCPPs levels increase. Practical implications-The study provides insights into green procurement, promoting its use in infrastructure development and aiding clients, particularly in the government sector with insights into the challenges and practices involved in green procurement. Practitioners can also benefit from better implementing CE strategies to draft and manage contracts for infrastructure projects that prioritize circularity. Originality/value-The limited impact of GCPPs on advancing CE principles in construction suggests policy and practice must strengthen procurement requirements to fully leverage spending and drive the sector's transition towards a circular model. Also, novel insight is provided into the most effective types of GCPPs for promoting CE success, aiding policymakers in optimizing construction procurement strategies.

Construction experts have noted the persistent concern about the quality of tender documents and its impact on the construction sector. Poor specification writing continues to be a weak link in the information chain that degrades the quality of tender documents and causes disputes,
particularly in a competitive market where construction professionals strictly interpret the documents to prepare a competitive bid. The impact of tender document quality on the accuracy of project estimates is assessed to determine the determinants of good tender-quality documents. Additionally, interventions that can be implemented to improve tender document quality and the implications of poor tender document quality were also analyzed. Qualitative data was collected from construction professionals using an interview. Data was analyzed by Atlas-ti using thematic analysis where six key themes were extracted. The study concluded that poorquality tender documents compromise the accuracy of project estimates and delivery of projects within the South African construction industry. The consequences of poor tender document
quality included reduced project profitability, incomplete projects, project termination due to funding issues, misunderstanding of boundaries, misalignment of the programme, increased costs and a negative impact on construction estimates.

All papers in this publication have been through a review process involving a review of abstracts, peer review of full papers by at least two referees, reporting of comments to authors, revision of papers by authors and reevaluation of the revised papers to ensure quality of content.

All papers in this publication have been through a review process involving a review of abstracts, peer review of full papers by at least two referees, reporting of comments to authors, revision of papers by authors and reevaluation of the revised papers to ensure quality of content.

Electronic procurement is a valuable means through which organisations can promote accountability, efficiency, transparency and value for money in the acquisition of goods, services, utilities and works. The adoption and use of electronic procurement in the South African construction industry is still in its early stages particularly in the public sector. The research aim was to ascertain construction procurement practices; and the extent of e-procurement use in the Gauteng Province of South Africa. Qualitative data collected through interviews with seven respondents in two government departments was transcribed and then analysed using content analysis. The findings indicate that the paper-based system is prone to manipulations, delays in approval, poor records keeping and wasted resources. A limited use of electronic systems in the procurement of works was observed, with the call for tenders and payment of contractors being the two main activities executed using electronic database...

NEGOTIATING ACCESS INTO FIRMS: OBSTACLES AND STRATEGIES Samuel Laryea University of Reading, Reading s. laryea@ reading. ac. uk Will Hughes University of Reading, Reading wp hughes@ reading. ac. uk Researchers often experience difficulties with the ...

The study probed the challenges and possible solutions facing the effective utilization of information resources by inmates of Delta correctional institutions. The five correctional centers in Delta State were used for the study namely: Agbor, Kwale, Ogwashi-Ukwu, Sapele and Warri correctional centers. The study employed a descriptive structure using the multi sampling technique. The population was made up of 2,821 respondents and a sample size of 341 chosen. The researcher developed instrument for data collection was validated by experts. A test result reliability was conducted with a reliability index of 92 and 87 which were above 70. Data collected were analyzed using mean and percentages and the study revealed the absence of educative programmes, no enough reading materials, noise from within and outside the library and the library uncomfortable for reading. The study therefore recommended among other things, the introduction of educative programs, reaching to the government to provide funds to acquire more reading materials and if possible relocating the library to where there will be no noise.

The paper SDG and MDG development strategies through a MDGs to development MDGs are reviewed and studied. studies, reports, books, and journal articles on GNH, SDGs, and MDGs by different researchers, authors, and writers may be seen as a gimmick but it is a bala brought real gains in guiding policy directions to Bhutan's overarching long year development plans. Likewise, MDGs are ambitious, yet it is a touchstone for universal development policy for UN member nations since 2000, and have succeeded in lifting society from extreme poverty, reducing hunger, enabling more girls to attend schools, and protecting our mother earth. Similarly, SDGs, UN's 2030 strategy for sustainable devel policy for UN member nations, and executing SDGs is not just about providing a future of harmony and dignity, it is more profound and a moment for each nation to consider what connects it as a peaceful nation, and what Copyright©2023, Tsheten Dorji. This is an open access distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided

Procurement guidelines must be efficient and effective to provide goods/services that can be measured in terms of quality, quantity, time, cost from budget planning, and their realization. The current self-managed procurement guidelines are inadequate and generally simple in both Ministries/National Institutions/Local Governments/Companies/Organizations, therefore detailed guidelines need to be developed holistically and consistent with certain steps. This research is designed to build a technical guideline for the procurement of self-management to become a benchmark that can be used by various stakeholders, especially State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) in the implementation of community empowerment. The methodology used is descriptive qualitative with a case study on Corporate Social Responsibility in the Cash-Intensive Work Program for infrastructure work with the focus of comparative case studies on self-managing procurement methods, especially type IV and direct appointment in organizing cash-intensive work activities as community empowerment program in order to produce the best technical work instructions in order to realize good governance avoids operational constraints. In order to understand in-depth analysis, comparisons are made with direct appointments procurement as procurement that is often used in CSR activities. In conclusion, The self-managing procurement recommendations are significantly increasing collaboration between stakeholders, synchronizing knowledge transfer for social capacity, creating job opportunities to reduce unemployment, and encouraging integration to develop local infrastructure as a shared responsibility to achieve SDGs with Good Governance.

As cloud computing becomes increasingly integral to modern digital infrastructure, its environmental impact, particularly its carbon footprint, has come under scrutiny. This review paper explores best practices and emerging trends aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of cloud computing. The paper begins with an overview of the environmental challenges posed by the energy-intensive nature of data centres, which form the backbone of cloud services. It then delves into effective strategies for mitigating these impacts, including optimizing cooling systems, leveraging renewable energy sources, enhancing server utilization through virtualization, and implementing energy-efficient hardware and software. Furthermore, the paper examines cutting-edge developments such as artificial intelligence for energy management, edge computing, blockchain technology for energy transparency, and the design of sustainable data centres. Case studies from leading tech companies and innovative startups illustrate the practical application of these strategies. Additionally, the review addresses the challenges and barriers to adopting greener cloud practices, including technical, economic, and regulatory hurdles. The paper concludes by highlighting future directions for research and policy recommendations to support sustainable cloud computing. By adopting the discussed best practices and staying abreast of emerging trends, stakeholders can significantly reduce the environmental impact of cloud computing, contributing to broader global efforts to combat climate change.

Disputes have become an endemic feature of the Indian construction industry. If they are not resolved promptly they can escalate causing schedule delays, lead to claims that require litigation proceedings for resolution and destroy business relationships. The competitive nature and contractual complexity inherent within construction can aggravate the incidence of disputes. Research over the last two decades has revealed that factors such as scope changes, poor contract documentation, restricted access, unforeseen ground conditions, and contractual ambiguities are contributors of disputes. While this is widely known, disputes still prevail over such issues. One of the greatest challenges facing the construction industry during the last couple of decades has been how to resolve disputes arising in construction contracts&#39; in a timely and efficient manner with minimal financial costs, without hindering the pre-planned end results on a construction project. INTRODUCTION Construction ...

This study explores the influence of cultural exchange on global understanding and intercultural communication. It delves into the multifaceted dimensions of cultural exchange, cultural integration, and cultural continuity in fostering tolerance, empathy, and mutual respect among diverse communities worldwide. The study also adopts a comparative approach, assessing Niger Delta Diasporan residents in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, and their ability to bridge culture. It employs literature review and archived documents to analyze how cultural exchange cultivates a more inclusive and harmonious global society. It investigates various forms of cultural exchanges, like educational programs, artistic collaborations, and intercultural festivals, to discern their specific impacts on individual and collective perceptions of diversity. The study examines the challenges and potential pitfalls associated with cultural exchange, such as cultural appropriation and misrepresentation, highlighting the importance of respectful and reciprocal engagement. It advocates for inclusive practices that empower marginalized voices and promote authentic cultural understanding. To underscore the vital role of cultural exchange in shaping a more inclusive, empathetic, and interconnected global community. As part of its mandate, the retreat, after a series of deliberations, recommended that governments and organizations invest in and promote cultural exchange programs that allow individuals to experience different cultures firsthand, like artist residencies and cultural festivals. In conclusion, the study advocates for continued promotion and support of diverse cultural interactions to bridge divides, dismantle stereotypes and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of human experiences. By recognizing and celebrating our shared humanity, we pave the way for a more harmonious and prosperous future.

Civil engineering contractors encounter serious challenges in order to sustain their businesses, especially in a weak economic climate. A certain level of construction experience, expertise and training are required to manage a sustainable construction company. The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) was established in 2000 as a statutory body to provide leadership to stakeholders and stimulate sustainable growth, reform and improvement of the construction sector for effective infrastructure delivery and improvement of construction skills. The objectives of this research were to investigate challenges faced by civil engineering contractors whilst making their enterprises sustainable. Contractors' views were presented at "Construction Indaba 2011" held on 1-2 June 2011 and hosted by eThekwini Municipality's Business Support, Tourism and Markets in Durban KwaZulu-Natal. Discussion and findings revealed to a skills' shortage in the construction section and underlined the need for continuous training of the contractors' employees. The South African government in conjunction with all stakeholders should develop and implement contractor programs to address the lack of technical and management skills in the construction sector.

Civil engineering contractors encounter serious challenges in order to sustain their businesses, especially in a weak economic climate.  A certain level of construction experience, expertise and training are required to manage a sustainable construction company.  The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) was established in 2000 as a statutory body to provide leadership to stakeholders and stimulate sustainable growth, reform and improvement of the construction sector for effective infrastructure delivery and improvement of construction skills. The objectives of this research were to investigate challenges faced by civil engineering contractors whilst making their enterprises sustainable.  Contractors’ views were presented at “Construction Indaba 2011” held on 1–2 June 2011 and hosted by eThekwini Municipality’s Business Support, Tourism and Markets in Durban KwaZulu-Natal. Discussion and findings revealed to a skills’ shortage in the construction section and underlined the ...

Orthodox logic proposes that small, medium, and micro enterprises are critical for growth, development and the transformation of society towards an inclusive economy, particularly in developing countries. The article provides input to the South African context in terms of addressing pertinent problems of multi-dimensions of poverty that encompass inequality, income, and unemployment at the municipal level. The case of the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA), which deals with a broad spectrum of construction projects, is used for sharing lessons of good practice that could be replicated in other implementing bodies. The article uses document analysis to cross-correlate compliance and observation as research method. The findings are that the operating model of JDA's project approach ensures prevention of the ill effects of the past, ensuring that there are economic opportunities for the previously marginalised groups. This approach is consistent with the objectives of the National Development Plan, which seeks to ensure an inclusive economy is attained thereby combatting socioeconomic exclusion. It is concluded that the JDA's approach towards an inclusive growth principle has been a successful one in terms of compliance with the legislation and this much is corroborated through observations made by the researcher. The unique contribution of the study is deemed important in the sense that it benefits society with regard to unemployment, inequality and income for an inclusive economy, which in turn ensures social inclusion. A case study of one entity is regarded as a limitation to the study since there has not been a comparison with others. Future studies will focus on comparative analyses of other operational modalities by other implementing agencies.