Date of Publication :31st July 2024

Abstract:Resource constraint is being experienced in the world with increasing population and resources are being consumed more rapidly thus generating a rift among countries to control resources. Construction industry (CI) is a major consumer of assets, ensuring sustainability is vital for overall sustainable development. While economic and environmental aspects of sustainability have received considerable attention from researchers, the social dimension has often been overlooked or insufficiently researched. This study aims to address this gap by examining the significant role of social factors in influencing construction sustainability practices. The research involved a thorough literature review encompassing PRISMA analysis, expert opinion through questionnaire, content analysis, and consultation with the industry experts to identify the 11 key drivers. Through a combination of expert engagement and literature review, eleven key social factors were identified and their impact on construction sustainability was assessed. Causal Loop Diagram (CLD) was prepared to illustrate the complex interactions among these factors. The CLD featured eight reinforcing loops and one balancing loop, illustrating the potential impact of these social factors on construction sustainability, either positively or negatively. The findings indicate that addressing these social factors can lead to an increase in construction sustainability over time. The CLD serves as a valuable instrument for comprehending the complex interconnections and feedback loops within the social system that influence construction sustainability. This insight is essential for stakeholders involved in endeavors where social factors are of considerable importance, enabling them to make more informed decisions and effectively address the complexities associated with these factors.

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