Evaluating the Sustainability Consequences of Omitting Structural Analysis in Reinforced Concrete Projects in Burundi

Sustainable construction has evolved into a global priority to mitigate the impacts of climate change, as the construction industry significantly contributes to environmental degradation and the overexploitation of resources. This study considers the effects on sustainability, particularly the inadequate management of resources, the ecological impact, and the anticipated degradation of the structures, all of which are due to the omission of the structural analysis during the design phase of the reinforced concrete (RC) structure. A methodical survey was conducted in three major cities among 258 professionals in the construction sector in Burundi, a developing country that has suffered socio-political and infrastructural challenges. The study examines the impact of these challenges on construction results. Quantitative analysis was carried out using SPSS v.30 and Amos 26 Software. For this research, reliability analysis, Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin test (KMO), Bartlett test, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and the Relative Importance Index (RII) were used to ensure the reliability and accuracy of the data. The results indicate that many projects are taking place in the absence of proper structural analysis due to financial constraints, poor quality materials, lack of qualified personnel, poor enforcement of regulations, and insufficient monitoring. These parameters have led to structural deficiencies compromising sustainability. The study recommends that government agencies, professional construction workers, and building owners improve regulation, teaching effectiveness, and professional responsibility to ensure that fundamental practices, such as structural analysis and the use of right sustainable materials, are logically applied to improve public safety and environmental resilience.