Unpacking Project Management Challenges in Green Building Projects: Insights from the Indian Construction Sector

Abstract

The growing acceptance and construction of green building projects has led to additional challenges in construction project management. Green buildings improve environmental performance and sustainability but for their successful implementation specialized project management approaches are required. This study aims to examine the key project management challenges faced in green building projects within the Indian construction industry. The challenges were identified from an extensive review of existing literature and based on these a systematic questionnaire survey was conducted among construction professionals working on green building projects, including architects, engineers, contractors, and sustainability consultants. The data collected through the questionnaire survey of construction professionals were analysed to identify and rank key project management challenges using the Relative Importance Index (RII) method. The findings highlight several critical issues affecting green building project delivery, including the complexity of coordination among multiple stakeholders, increased documentation requirements for certification, regulatory approval processes, and the higher initial costs associated with sustainable construction practices. The study provides insights into the management difficulties associated with green building implementation in India and highlights areas requiring improved project management practices. The findings can help green building professionals in developing more effective management strategies for green building projects while also contributing to ongoing research on sustainable construction management.