A sustainable–lean implementation methodology: a catalyst for sustainability enhancement of high-rise residential projects

Abstract

PurposeThe importance of lean and sustainability integration in sustainable construction (SC) has been extensively studied. However, a practical and thorough implementation methodology addressing the project life cycle phases is still inadequate. The present study has developed a novel phase-wise sustainable–lean implementation methodology for high-rise residential projects.Design/methodology/approachThe current study has identified the 50 direct conceptual interactions between 11 lean principles and 11 sustainability criteria encompassing 44 different attributes covering 174 sustainability actions. A panel of nine experts validated these interactions, and 50 integration vectors were proposed addressing different phases of the project life cycle of high-rise residential buildings. The experts also analysed the identified integration vectors for their current and likely future implementation in high-rise residential projects.FindingsThe interactions between lean and sustainability principles led to the development of a phase-wise implementation methodology. The experts' survey responses on the current level of implementation revealed that 40, 32 and 28% of integration vectors were implemented rarely, sometimes, and frequently, respectively. For likely future implementation, 28 and 72% integration vectors were reported as very likely and extremely likely to implement, respectively. This survey response highlighted the usefulness of identified integration vectors for enhancing the sustainability of high-rise residential projects.Originality/valueThe proposed sustainable–lean implementation methodology acts as a comprehensive guideline for implementing a lean approach to achieve the objectives of SC in high-rise residential projects. This may facilitate the transition from conventional to sustainable building practices using a lean approach.

Evaluating the Contribution of Lean Construction to Achieving Sustainable Development Goals

“…In the literature, many researchers have dealt with the principles of lean construction that lead to sustainability through waste reduction, the promotion of value-added activities, decreased material waste, shortened working hours, and increased safety [4,21,39,[42][43][44][45][46]. Other studies have focused on the relationship between green certification systems and lean techniques for high-rise projects [47]. Also, studies have examined the synergies, benefits, and trade-offs between lean thinking and sustainability in the construction industry [15,[47][48][49][50] presented the synergies between 11 lean construction principles and 11 sustainability criteria.…”

“…Other studies have focused on the relationship between green certification systems and lean techniques for high-rise projects [47]. Also, studies have examined the synergies, benefits, and trade-offs between lean thinking and sustainability in the construction industry [15,[47][48][49][50] presented the synergies between 11 lean construction principles and 11 sustainability criteria. However, the literature lacks studies explicitly monitoring the relationship between the SDGs and targets according to Agenda 2030 and the principles of lean construction.…”