Role of education and industry towards more sustainable construction

With the increase in the environment legislation during the last three decades, awareness about sustainable construction is growing around the globe. This study benchmarks sustainable construction courses offered by accredited Construction Management Programmes in the USA. This study also identifies commonly used sustainable construction techniques used by the industry. Recognition through awards also helped to promote environmentally responsible construction techniques. Findings from the study indicate that the study of sustainable or 'green' construction needs to be added to the Construction Management curriculum in the context of estimating scheduling and building techniques to prepare Construction Management professionals for construction in the 21st century. Commonly used sustainable construction practices and project attribute have also been compiled for interested readers. The constructors have used various methods to deal with the sensitivity of the environment and surrounding area of the project. Few examples consist of sustainable construction, LEED certification, pollution prevention and addressing community concerns through community involvement during various stages of the project. Findings from the study indicate that the proactive role played by the construction industry needs to be reciprocated by education providers, by offering sustainable construction courses to budding project managers who graduate from accredited Construction Management Programmes in the USA. Better preparedness of Construction Management workforce in sustainable design techniques and practices is expected in the 21st Century. The outcome of this study would benefit faculty belonging to Construction Management education programmes and general contractors interested in competing for awards prevalent in the construction industry.