Sustainability considerations in project delivery

This study explores the factors influencing the integration of sustainability considerations into project delivery. Specifically, the research is conducted to investigate the significance of the presence of (a) formal organizational structures for embedding sustainability, (b) types of sustainable business practices, and (c) triggers and constraints to the perceived degree of sustainability achieved in project delivery. This research is based on a questionnaire survey of more than 500 project practitioners and analysed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) through SmartPLS software. The results show how formal organizational structures and different types of incentives prompt managers to adopt more sustainable measures. By doing this, the research aims to identify the key determinants that influence the perceived level of sustainability adopted in project delivery. The managerial implications lie in the alignment of project success criteria with sustainability objectives, e.g., use ‘sustainable business practices’, their triggers, and the organizational structures to achieve project success through sustainability objectives. Secondly, the research can inform policymakers and professional associations on how to incorporate the identified sustainable practices into policies and professional certification frameworks. Thirdly, public administration institutions can enhance the sustainability of their projects by integrating these findings into the criteria for public bids and tender processes.