ABSTRACT

The research aimed at finding out the perception of consultants in the building industry on

green building practices in the Accra Metropolis. The research objectives were to identify

the factors hindering the practice of green building, to ascertain cost implications of green

building practices to client or end users, to identify different kinds of practices in green

building and to identify consulting professionals level of knowledge on green building

practices. The research gave a brief history of green buildings, explained the characteristics

and some elements of green building and talked about some few green building materials.

Cost issues concerning green building is an important aspect and the research elaborated

on that, also the advantages and disadvantages of the practice identified. Main factors

hindering the practice in the region was stated and explained. Primary data was obtained

through the use of close and open-ended questionnaire. Professionals who have lots of

experience in general construction and have dwelt directly in various construction were

approached with the questionnaires. The research observed that most of the practitioners in

the construction industry do not have many ideas about green building practices, even

though some of them are interested in knowing and practicing it. The researcher also

observed that the cost of green building is initially high, but maintenance and operational

cost is relatively low comparing to conventional buildings. Again the research identified

some factors that prevent green building practices to grow e.g., financial factors market

factors political or governmental or policy factors hinder the practicing of green building.

The research also educated on some of the various elements of green building practices

available. The report will go a long way to educate most professionals about green building

and its practice

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