Evaluating the Influence of Green Innovation Competencies on Sustainable Construction Practices in Nigeria Using PLS-SEM

Abstract

The construction industry is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable practices. Hence, this study investigates the influence of Green Innovation Competencies (GICs), categorized into economic, social, environmental, and technical dimensions on Sustainable Construction Practices (SCPs) in Nigeria. Data were collected through an online survey from 263 randomly selected registered construction professionals, including Architects, Builders, Civil engineers, Estate surveyors, Town planners, and Quantity surveyors. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), the study assessed measurement reliability, validity, and the structural model fit. Results revealed that economic, social, and technical competencies significantly and positively influenced SCPs, while environmental competencies exhibited a limited direct effect. This limited effect may be attributed to weak regulatory enforcement, low adoption of environmental policies, and cultural barriers that hinder the translation of environmental awareness into tangible sustainable construction practices. The model explained 35.6% of the variance in sustainable construction practices attributable to green innovation competencies, indicating a moderate predictive strength of the model. Despite this, the study highlights the critical need for enhanced policy frameworks, targeted professional training, and stronger regulatory enforcement to promote the widespread adoption of green innovation in the Nigerian construction sector.