A Framework for the Implementation of Green Certification of Buildings in Ghana
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Date
2018-06
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KNUST
Abstract
Buildings are responsible for more than 40% of global energy use and one third of global greenhouse gas emissions both in developed and developing countries. A number of buildings are constructed every year but only a small number of them can be identified as “green buildings.” Despite the well-known benefits of green certification of buildings, it still remains in the state of infancy in Ghana, and adequate diffusion and implementation strategies should be put in place to ensure that they become more established. This study therefore sought to propose a framework which has guidelines which are practical steps that can aid the certifying body in making decisions in relation to implementing the green certification of buildings. Roger’s diffusion of innovation theory and Hartman’s theory were adopted to aid in proposing a framework. The study adopted a qualitative method of enquiry with semi-structured interviews to gather data from professional bodies in the built environment. Findings from the study revealed that some of the professional bodies have used their influences to sensitize their members on green certification of buildings while others are yet to do the same. The key barriers to the adoption of green certification of buildings were identified to include lack of legal backing, cost and financing, inadequate awareness of the benefits of green certification of buildings, inadequate human resources, lack of active government participation, and the conservative nature of Ghanaians. Furthermore, the main drivers for the adoption of green certification of buildings were also identified to include lack of observability of the benefits of green certified buildings, commitment of government, incorporating it into the code of practice for professional bodies, public acknowledgement, policies and regulations, effective communication and source of information. To ensure that green certification of building is implemented in Ghana, it is recommended that the guidelines in the iiiiv proposed framework must be adopted by the certifying body which would help increase the awareness and adoption of green certification of buildings in Ghana
Description
A Dissertation Submitted to the Department of Building Technology College of Art and Built Environment in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Degree of MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY