Conceptual framework for assessing the impact of green practices on collaborative work in China's construction industry

Abstract

In recent years, green building has drawn the attention of both academics and practitioners and experienced rapid growth. In order to achieve the concept of sustainable development in the project life cycle of green building, a holistic approach to green practice is needed. Unlike traditional construction approaches, adopting the green practice approach calls for more cohesive collaborations among different stakeholders. This study aims to elicit a better understanding of how green practice influences collaborative work (CW). Data were collected through green technical documents of several real-life projects and interviews with owners, contractors, designers, cost estimators, and government officials in China. A conceptual framework for determining the structure and content of the impact of green practice in CW was mapped; four potential conflicts were identified. Further analysis was used to explore the mitigation strategies that could be used to make CW particularly suitable for green building implementation. The study will help stakeholders identify their objectives and to strategically facilitate a more collaborative work environment. © 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.