SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION IN THE DIGITAL AGE: SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THEORIES OF SUSTAINABILITY AND SDGS IN GREEN BUILDING

Abstract

Most industries are on the edge of revolution owing to the rise of automation and disruptive technologies. Like other industries, the construction industry is also undergoing a substantial transformation due to digitalisation. Amidst the revolution, the nature of the construction industry in its practices and activities, coupled with the industry players’ paucity of environmental consciousness, has significantly contributed to the decline of ecosphere health. Finding a balance between rapid growth in the economy, widespread digital adoption, increase in population, and environmental threats is critical. At its core, sustainable construction processes adhere to the sustainable development philosophies as outlined by the World Commission on Environment and Development in the Brundtland Commission’s report, Our Common Future, published in 1987. This paper discusses the theoretical framework upon which sustainable construction practices and green building principles were conceptualised. The analysis of the heuristic approach to philosophical foundations demonstrated the critical nature of making correct policy decisions (on development) and its significant implications, particularly towards nature. Additionally, this paper examined and identified the construction industry's potential contributions to attain the global agenda of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. The findings in this article will assist policymakers in the construction industry in balancing between the interests of the stakeholders and the protection of the environment in the technological epoch.