Analysis of the Obstacles Facing Sustainability in the Syrian Construction Industry

Analysis of the Obstacles Facing Sustainability in the Syrian Construction Industry | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article Analysis of the Obstacles Facing Sustainability in the Syrian Construction Industry Mohammed Ali Alshamali This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-8006905/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract The construction sector in Syria plays a fundamental role in shaping urban identity. Therefore, there is an urgent need to change traditional building design and implementation patterns to make them more sustainable. Although sustainable building practices achieve environmental, social, and economic benefits by conserving resources, rationalizing energy and water consumption, improving the indoor environment and public health, preserving resources for future generations, and reducing costs, especially during the operation and maintenance phase, reliance on sustainable technologies in the Syrian construction sector remains limited or almost non-existent. This is due to the presence of numerous challenges and obstacles that hinder the adoption of these technologies, including economic, financial, social, engineering, educational, external, natural, and other obstacles. In the context of this research, the challenges and obstacles hindering sustainability in the construction industry in Syria were analyzed by examining the local reality and reviewing several relevant previous studies. A set of (37) obstacles was identified and divided into ( 6 ) categories. A suitable questionnaire was then designed to determine the relative importance of these obstacles and rank them in descending order using the Relative Importance Index (RII). The results showed that the most significant obstacles were financial and economic (24%), followed by social (21%), engineering and educational (18%), administrative (16%), technical and technological (12%), and natural and external (9%). A set of proposals and recommendations were developed to address these obstacles and promote the adoption of sustainability technologies in the Syrian construction sector, particularly during the upcoming reconstruction phase. Sustainability Construction Industry Sustainable Technologies Sustainability Obstacles Relative Importance Index (RII) Syria Figures Figure 1 1. Introduction The construction sector contributes more than 50% of global capital investments and approximately 7% of global employment (Reed R. et al., 2009). Therefore, the concept of sustainability has expanded steadily over the past decades and is currently a major focus of most urban development projects. By studying the current situation and consulting numerous experts, including engineers and academics working within the Syrian construction industry, it became clear that Syria, like some other countries around the world, suffers from many traditional contemporary challenges and problems, such as urban expansion, population explosion, increased demand for housing, desertification, water scarcity, environmental pollution, excessive depletion of land resources, global warming, and increased greenhouse gas emissions, not to mention the tragic war conditions that have destroyed infrastructure and superstructure. Although the construction sector is a key element in shaping our urban identity, the reality of construction in the Syrian construction industry faces unique challenges, such as weak infrastructure and basic services such as electricity, water, and transportation, in addition to weak and insufficient funding, high costs, a great need for housing, excessive consumption of resources without reliance on renewable sources, and pollution problems resulting from construction waste and other factors. All these challenges, in addition to the need for economic growth, a boost to the gross domestic product (GDP), and the urgent need for reconstruction, compel us to adopt modern strategies, such as sustainability, at the national level. These strategies enable us to design solutions that address contemporary problems and build on reality, overcoming future obstacles. They also require us to explore ways to harness resources, capabilities, and tools to serve sustainable development in Syria. This research will analyze the most significant obstacles to the adoption of sustainability in Syria, determine the importance of each, and identify priorities. This will then lead to proposals and recommendations to address these obstacles and enhance sustainability within the Syrian construction industry. 2. Research Topic When examining the environmental and economic conditions and limited resources in Syria, we realize that the need for sustainability technologies and concepts is no less urgent than in other countries. Furthermore, the construction sector in Syria lacks sustainable building applications and technologies in most projects. This is due to numerous economic, technical, engineering, social, and other challenges and obstacles. Most construction projects rely on the prevailing thinking of stakeholders, relying on methods and techniques characterized by rapid completion and high profitability, without taking into account environmental aspects and sustainable building systems that provide diverse environmental, economic, and social benefits. As Syria is currently entering a phase of reconstruction, it is imperative to seize the opportunity and adopt an approach to designing and constructing cities and buildings that preserves the environment and resources for future generations. This approach focuses on energy and material efficiency, reducing waste and pollution, and improving the quality of life within buildings. This research will analyze the challenges and obstacles facing sustainability in the Syrian construction industry, assess the relative importance of these obstacles, and develop recommendations and proposals to address these obstacles and promote sustainability in Syria. 3. Research Objectives The research aims to: Analyze the obstacles to adopting sustainable building technologies in the Syrian construction sector, by examining the local context and reviewing previous relevant studies. Calculate the relative importance of obstacles by designing a suitable questionnaire and involving engineers, project managers, and academic researchers interested in this type of research. Rank the obstacles in descending order using the relative importance index. Develop proposals and recommendations to address challenges and obstacles and promote the adoption of sustainable technologies in the Syrian construction sector. 4. Reference studies In their study (Obstacles to green building accreditation during operating phases: identifying Challenges and solutions for sustainable development ), researcher M. and colleagues confirmed that the biggest obstacles to adopting green buildings during the operational phases are inconsistencies in government regulations, market constraints that hinder developers' interests, and the difficulty of meeting technological standards. The findings also underscore the urgent need for policymakers, market participants, and technology developers to collaborate and address identified challenges to ensure the sustainability of green buildings. Overall, this study contributes to expanding the knowledge base on green building practices and provides valuable insights for stakeholders to facilitate the development of sustainable buildings. By addressing the identified obstacles, the study can maximize the benefits of green buildings and promote environmentally friendly construction practices.( Karamoozian, M. Zhang, H. 2023) Through the research (Assessment of Implementation of Green Buildings Strategies: Syrian Case Study) the northern researcher shed light on the global assessment systems for green buildings that have recently become widespread, especially in developed countries. He then identified the assessment systems adopted in the Middle East region, deduced the standards adopted within those systems, and then organized them in a questionnaire that determines the importance and extent of the application of green building standards in the construction industry in Syria, and suggested some solutions to improve the reality of the application of those standards within the Syrian construction industry.(Alshamali 2020) The study reached a number of results and recommendations, the most important of which are: that foreseeing the future contributes to creating a sustainable environmental future for future generations, achieving the country's goals, enhancing its global competitiveness, and keeping pace with the future visions of its wise leadership. It is not yet clear what the future of environmental sustainability will look like, and that we still need to know more. The research also recommends the need to formulate a future vision with a pioneering orientation based on foreseeing the environmental future and predicting its threats based mainly on strategic analysis to explore future opportunities and expected environmental threats. Environmental protection is the mainstay of sustainability and many of the key concerns of humanity's future, i.e. sustainability determines how ecosystems are studied and protected, and how technology is driven to build a more sustainable environmental future.( Shamsi, 2024) Through their study (Proposing Criteria for Assessing the Sustainability of Residential Buildings in Syria and Measuring their application), researcher Maya and her colleague designed a measuring tool to measure the level of sustainability application in residential infrastructure projects and distributed it to a sample of respondents within the design and implementation specializations. The most important criteria were identified for Syrian conditions. The criteria were divided into seven axes, each with a number of sub-criteria. The measurement was carried out using a five-point Likert scale, and the relative importance of each axis was determined. The study concluded that the most important criteria in both the design and implementation phases are energy efficiency and the economic aspect, as the most important criteria can be utilized in designing a sustainable housing model.(Maya,R. Hasan, R. 2021) In his study, researcher Mustafa used the relative importance index (RII) or degree of risk method to rank the causes of low labor productivity. The study concluded that the most important causes affecting labor productivity are: low salaries, unavailability of materials, etc. The study presented by researcher Salma and her colleagues entitled (Obstacles of the construction industry in Red Sea State) showed the most important factors affecting the construction sector, which are the change in the exchange rate, non-adherence to the timetable, fluctuations in material prices, weak incentives and wages, poor planning, and force majeure.)Mohammed, S. Zakaria, Ali. Deyab, W. 2023). Through their study (Sustainability in Building and Construction: Revising Definitions and Concepts ), researcher Zabihi and colleagues presented a comprehensive definition as a model for building sustainability. Some key aspects and categories of sustainability in architecture and construction were also presented. Sustainability aspects in buildings were classified into four groups of environmental, social, economic, and technical issues. Each group presents some general factors. The characteristics mentioned are some of the elements that align with the principles and goals of sustainability and are effective in achieving sustainability goals. (Zabihi, H. et al. 2012) Through their study (Sustainability in Building and Construction: Revising Definitions and Concepts ), researcher Zabihi and colleagues presented a comprehensive definition as a model for building sustainability. Some key aspects and categories of sustainability in architecture and construction were also presented. Sustainability aspects in buildings were classified into four groups of environmental, social, economic, and technical issues. Each group presents some general factors. The characteristics mentioned are some of the elements that align with the principles and goals of sustainability and are effective in achieving sustainability goals.(Ali, N. 2012) Through their study (Obstacles in Implementing Green Building Projects in Malaysia) researcher Ben Esa and his colleagues concluded that the most significant obstacles lie in the lack of awareness, education, and information about the benefits of constructing green buildings. They recommended a qualitative shift and the search for greener, more environmentally friendly, and energy-saving options. Raising awareness is the first and essential step to ensuring the sustainability of green buildings. (Esa, M R. Marhani, M. Hasan, A 2011) Researcher Ismail and his colleague also pointed out through their research (Constraints of green buildings in Iraqi cities ) that there are many obstacles that hinder the establishment of green buildings in Iraqi cities, the most important of which are the laws and legislation that need to be enacted in a way that is compatible with technological progress in the field of architecture, in addition to technical, financial and other obstacles.(Ismael, N. Hussain, A 2019). SHEN and colleagues have prepared a research paper titled "Risk Assessment for Construction Joint Ventures in China." This paper uses a risk importance index to demonstrate the relative importance of risks associated with joint ventures in Chinese construction procurement practices. It examines real-life cases to illustrate the risk environment faced by joint ventures. The paper also explores the practical applications of risk management in joint venture businesses.(Shen 2001). 5. Research methodology and steps The descriptive analytical approach was used in the context of this research to achieve the desired objectives of analyzing the obstacles facing sustainability in the Syrian construction industry, calculating their importance through designing an appropriate questionnaire, and then prioritizing these obstacles using the relative importance index(RII). Figures (1) below illustrates the research steps. 6. Sustainable buildings in the construction industry Demand for construction projects has increased dramatically in recent decades to manage population growth and economic activity. The construction industry has the greatest impact on the environment among most industries (Xiaoling Zhang et al., 2014). Therefore, there is a distinct need to implement a sustainable built environment in practice. The Building Services Research and Information Association ( BSRIA 1 ) defines sustainable buildings as: "responsible management and the creation of a healthy environment based on resource efficiency and environmental principles." There is a lot of previous research that shows the great and growing concern about sustainability, which in turn drives the construction industry to pay great attention to building sustainable buildings. A major reason for this is that buildings have very high rates of energy consumption and large amounts of harmful gases produced by residential homes, which are estimated to be about 40% of the total energy consumption and domestic gases emitted in developed countries (IPCC, 2015; UNEP, 2009). In addition, the contribution of the construction sector to the global economy is very high, which makes the trend towards achieving sustainability increasingly important. Sustainable design and sustainable construction are concepts that express new methods and approaches to design and construction that address the environmental and economic challenges that have cast a shadow over various sectors in this era. New buildings are designed, implemented, and operated using advanced methods and technologies that contribute to reducing environmental impact while simultaneously reducing costs, particularly operating and maintenance costs. They also contribute to providing a safe and comfortable urban environment () [9]. Therefore, the reasons for adopting the concept of sustainability in the urban sector are no different from the motives that led to the emergence and adoption of the concept of sustainable development with its intertwined environmental, economic, and social dimensions. There have been no longer any dividing lines between the environment and the economy since the emergence and spread of the concept of sustainable development, which has confirmed beyond doubt that ensuring the continuity of economic growth cannot be achieved in light of the threat to the environment from pollutants and waste, the destruction of its vital systems, and the depletion of its natural resources. 7. Identifying the Challenges Hindering Sustainability in the Construction Industry In order to identify the obstacles and challenges facing sustainability in the Syrian construction industry, previous relevant studies were reviewed in several countries, particularly those with construction conditions similar to those in Syria. Interviews were also conducted with numerous engineers, project managers, business owners, and other professionals working in the Syrian construction industry, as well as academic experts and researchers interested in this type of research. Consequently, a set of (37) obstacles was identified, which are considered the most influential on sustainability in the construction industry in Syria. 8. Collecting data on the challenges facing sustainability: In order to identify the most significant obstacles and challenges facing sustainability in the Syrian construction industry, relevant data must be collected and analyzed. Therefore, a suitable questionnaire was designed to consist of two parts: The first part includes general information about the target audience of the questionnaire, namely engineers, project managers, and companies operating in the construction industry. Therefore, a suitable questionnaire was designed to consist of two parts: The first includes general information about the target audience, namely engineers, project managers, and companies operating within the construction industry. The second focuses on the obstacles and challenges facing sustainability. All obstacles were grouped into ( 6 ) packages as shown in Table (1). Table 1 Sustainability obstacles packages and their criteria N0. obstacles packages Sub-obstacles 1 Financial and economic High initial costs 2 Decline in national income 3 Lack of funding sources 4 Lack of understanding of the financial return on investment 5 Lack of incentives 6 Weak financial and institutional support 7 Engineering and educational Ignoring advanced BIM technologies 8 Lack of training and qualifications in sustainable technologies 9 Ignoring sustainability concepts in educational curricula 10 Problems with rapid and optimal decision-making 11 Lack of balance between sustainability dimensions 12 Complexity of integrated design 13 Difficulty gathering comprehensive information 14 Lack of appropriate building codes 15 Lack of investment in digital infrastructure 16 Social and cultural Insufficient awareness and education efforts 17 Ignoring the social dimension of sustainability 18 Individual resistance to change 19 Low income 20 Ignorance of sustainable technologies 21 Low demand and desire 22 Prevailing awareness toward adopting less expensive technologies and quick profit 23 Technical High costs of software and equipment 24 Lack of necessary expertise 25 Lack of skilled and trained labor 26 Lack of companies specializing in sustainable buildings 27 Natural and External Natural disasters and earthquakes 28 Weather, climate conditions, and floods 29 Nature of the geographical location 30 Wars and conflicts 31 Administrative Obstacles Lack of Resources and Materials 32 Weak Government Support 33 Lack of Sustainable Infrastructure 34 Difficulty in Availing Sustainable Materials and Technologies 35 Weak Institutional Coordination 36 Lack of Supportive Policies and Enforceable Legislation 37 Weak Private Sector Participation 9. Discussion of Results The questionnaire was distributed to a random sample of 80 participants from the study population. Seventy-two questionnaires were returned, and two were excluded for lack of effectiveness. Statistical analysis and induction were conducted on 70 questionnaires, which is considered sufficient for the sample size, table (2) shows information about the sample members' experiences. Table 2 The experience of the sample members Experience (years) Repetition Percentage% Less than 5 years 8 11.5% 6–10 13 18.5% 11–15 12 17% 16–20 21 30% Over 21 years 16 23% Table 2 shows that the percentage of respondents with more than 10 years of experience exceeds 70%, while the percentage of those with more than 6 years of experience is 88.5%. This indicates that most survey participants have extensive experience, which reassures the validity of the results. 9.1. Obstacles to sustainability in the Syrian construction industry After collecting the questionnaires and data for the second part of the questionnaire, the relative importance index method was used to determine the relative importance of the obstacles facing sustainability in the Syrian construction industry for all the packages included in the questionnaire, using the following two relationships (Shen, 2001). Where : \(\:{\text{s}}_{\text{j}}^{\text{i}}\) − The importance of the obstacle (i) is defined by the response (j). α i j - The probability of the obstacle occurring (i) is defined by the response (j) β i j - The impact of the obstacle (i) on the construction industry is defined by the response (j) RSIS i - Relative importance factor of the obstacle (i). n - Number of effective responses. The numerical values of the two factors (α, β) were adopted within the range from (0) to (100) according to the following table: Table 3 factors (α, β) values coefficient (α) probability of obstacle occurrence coefficient (β) of the effect of the occurrence of the obstacle Select a value from 0-100% Select a value from 0-100% The data from the questionnaire were entered into Excel spreadsheets, and calculations were performed using the two previous relationships. To determine the level of importance of sustainability barriers and assess risks (considering that sustainability barriers are considered risks facing the construction sector), a probability and impact matrix was created. This matrix identifies the values that lead to a priority assessment of the risks threatening sustainability, as shown in Table 4 . Table4. Risk Matrix Risk Matrix Impact Very Weak Weak Medium High Very High Probability 1_20 21_40 41_60 61_80 81_100 Very High 81_100 81 ≦ 1701 ≦ 3321 ≦ 4981 ≦ 6561 ≦ High 61_80 61 ≦ 1281 ≦ 2501 ≦ 3721 ≦ 4981 ≦ Medium 41_60 41 ≦ 861 ≦ 1681 ≦ 2501 ≦ 3321 ≦ Weak 21_40 21 ≦ 441 ≦ 861 ≦ 1281 ≦ 1701 ≦ Very Weak 1_20 1 ≦ 21 ≦ 41 ≦ 61 ≦ 81 ≦ Based on the above, the levels of importance can be divided according to the risk matrix, as shown in Table 5 . Accordingly, the 12 most important potential obstacles to sustainability in the Syrian construction sector were ranked according to the relative importance index, as shown in Table 6 . Table 5 Relative importance levels of sustainability challenges Importance level Minimum Maximum Very Low 1 440 Low 441 1680 Medium 1681 3720 High 3721 4981 Very High 4981 6561≦ Table 6 Descending order of barriers to sustainability in the construction industry, by importance index Sort. obstacle Arithmetic Mean Importance level 1 High initial costs 5600 V.H 2 Difficulty in providing sustainable materials and technologies 5250 V.H 3 Lack of skilled and trained labor 5110 V.H 4 Lack of necessary expertise 4900 H 5 Lack of appropriate building codes 4410 H 6 Inadequate awareness and education efforts 3920 H 7 Ignorance of sustainable technologies 3640 M 8 Low demand and desire 3500 M 9 Decline in national income 3150 M 10 Scarcity and lack of funding sources 2800 M 11 Wars and conflicts 2776 M 12 Weak government support 2753 M From Table (6), we note the very significant role of the high initial costs of sustainable facilities in hindering the adoption of these technologies in the construction industry. This is in addition to the difficulty of providing sustainable materials and technologies and their high cost, especially in the context of weak national income and lack of funding sources. The lack of skilled and well-trained labor in such technologies also complicates their adoption. Ignorance and lack of knowledge of the investment returns of such technologies, especially during the operation and maintenance phase, along with a lack of expertise, limited educational focus within curricula, and declining government encouragement, have all had a significant negative impact on their adoption within the Syrian construction industry. Wars and conflicts also hinder development in the construction industry in general and reliance on sustainable technologies in particular. 9.2. Ranking the obstacles according to the main clusters based on the relative importance index: The following table (7) shows the ranking of the packages of obstacles facing sustainability in the Syrian construction industry according to the importance index, based on the results of the questionnaire analysis. It is also shown in the chart (1). Table 7 Ranking of obstacle packages based on relative importance index (RII) Sort. Obstacle Packages Arithmetic Mean Relative Importance % 1 Financial and Economic 31450 24 4 Administrative 20967 16 3 Educational and Engineering 23587 18 5 Technical 15725 12 6 Natural and external 11793 9 2 Social and Cultural 27518 21 From Table (6), we note that the financial and economic obstacles had the highest percentage of importance (24%), followed by the social obstacles at a rate of (21%), then the educational and engineering obstacles (18%), then the administrative obstacles (16%), then the technical obstacles (12%), then the natural and external obstacles (9%), and this is what the chart (1) shows. 10. Conclusions This study confirmed the weakness in adopting sustainable building technologies in the Syrian construction industry. This is due to a number of challenges and obstacles that hinder the adoption of such technologies, most notably economic and financial challenges due to high construction costs, declining national income, a lack of funding sources, and a lack of government incentives. Furthermore, there are social challenges related to ignorance and a lack of awareness within society about the environmental, social, and economic benefits of sustainable buildings. This is in addition to the prevailing societal mindset that favors projects that achieve rapid completion and quick profits, while overlooking the financial benefits that sustainable projects can generate, particularly during the operation and maintenance phase. We also note a lack of seriousness in adopting sustainable technologies within the curricula of engineering colleges in Syrian universities, and a failure to update construction industry codes to meet modern requirements and keep pace with developments and technology. Furthermore, there is a lack of expertise and a skilled, experienced workforce trained in sustainable technologies. It is also important to note the significant negative impact of conflicts and wars in hindering the development of the construction industry in general, and the adoption of sustainable building technologies in particular. 11. Recommendations There is no doubt that the upcoming reconstruction phase in Syria will be an important locomotive that will constitute the main incentive and driver in the development and construction process in general, which will positively reflect on all economic sectors and in all fields. There is no doubt that the construction industry is one of the most important sectors that will be targeted by this phase. Modern technologies must be used in reconstruction and benefit as much as possible from the experiences of some Arab, regional or international countries in accordance with the economic policies followed in Syria. This research presents a set of proposals and recommendations that may help in adopting sustainable technologies in the construction industry in Syria, including: 1. Activating the role of environmental institutions and evaluating sustainability-related policies and decisions to ensure integration between all environmental, economic, and social aspects and prevent conflicts between them, and granting tax exemptions or direct support to projects that adopt sustainability standards. 2. Developing specialized training programs to prepare qualified engineers and technicians in the field of sustainability and modern construction technologies. 3. The need to enhance the application of sustainability concepts by taking into account cultural, social, and economic factors when making decisions or developing future plans. 4. Utilizing sustainable green building rating systems in countries across the region and around the world and working to develop a rating system specifically for buildings in Syria. 5. Reviewing approved building codes and developing them to keep pace with modern developments and adopting modern technologies and sustainability concepts. 6. The media must play an active role in raising public awareness of sustainable buildings by disseminating and marketing sustainable engineering projects and highlighting the economic, social, and environmental benefits of investing in sustainable construction. 7- Work to develop teaching curricula in engineering colleges across various Syrian public and private universities, including curricula focused on sustainability and modern construction technologies. 8- Strengthen cooperation and coordination between local and international research and study centers, and allocate a special budget for scientific research focused on sustainability. Declarations Acknowledgements: The researcher would like to thank the editors for their assistance in preparing the manuscript in a scientifically sound manner and for their prompt cooperation in making the required amendments Author statement: I confirm that the work presented in this paper is original and has been carried out with full adherence to ethical guidelines. All sources and references used in the development of this study have been properly cited. I affirm that there are no conflicts of interest regarding the publication of this work and that all data, analyses, and conclusions presented are accurate and reflect the findings of my research. Author contributions: Mohammed Ali Alshamali solely conceived the study, conducted the data analysis, interpreted the results, and wrote the manuscript. Ethical statement: This study involves collecting data through questionnaires from participants, including engineers, project managers, and companies operating in the construction sector. An agreement was reached with these participants to ensure the confidentiality of their personal information or scientific answers, and the researcher pledged to them in this regard. The researcher promised to deliver a copy of the study if it is approved for publication in your esteemed journal. The research ethics followed for scientific publication in the Damascus University Journal of Engineering Sciences (Damascus, Syria) were adopted. In accordance with the National Guide for the Ethics of Scientific Research and Modern Technological Applications, prepared by the National Committee for the Ethics of Scientific and Technological Knowledge at the Higher Authority for Scientific Research, and implemented by Damascus University. https://journal.damascusuniversity.edu.sy/index.php/dujc/Ethics Ethical approval and accordance: Ethical approval and accordance: The researcher collected the sample (questionnaire) in accordance with the National Guidelines for Ethics in Scientific Research and Modern Technological Applications, prepared by the National Committee for Ethics in Scientific and Technological Knowledge at the Higher Commission for Scientific Research and implemented by Damascus University, and adopted by the Damascus University Journal of Engineering Affairs. Ethical approval statement : The protocol was approved by [the National Committee for Ethics of Scientific and Technological Knowledge at the Higher Commission for Scientific Research accredited at Damascus University] in accordance with [the National Guide for Ethics of Scientific Research and Modern Technological Applications]. consent to publish statement: "Informed consent was obtained from all participants in this study". The researcher confirms that all survey participants—experts, academic researchers, project and company managers, and adult engineers—had no objection to participating and agreed to the confidentiality of their data, including their personal information and scientific responses. Participant identification data : "Not applicable" due to the absence of identifying data or images within the manuscript. Publication Consent: Publication approval: The researcher has reviewed the study thoroughly and confirms that he approves of publication. Funding: This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors. Data availability: All data generated or analyzed during this study are included in this published article. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests. References Xiaoling, Zhang, et al. A prototype system dynamic model for assessing the sustainability of construction projects. Int J Project Manage. 2014;32:66–76. IPCC. 2015. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change http://www.ipcc.ch/ UNEP-SBCI. 2009. United Nations Environment Programme http://www.unep.org/sbci/ Deep R, Suleiman D. M. Planning for Sustainable Development, research published in the context of a doctoral dissertation, Damascus University Journal of Engineering Sciences, Volume Twenty-Five - Issue One – 2009. Reed R et al. 2009. International Comparison of Sustainable Rating Tools. JOSRE 1. Karamoozian M, Zhang H. (2023). Obstacles to green building accreditation during operating phases: identifying Challenges and solutions for sustainable development. Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, Volume 24, 2025, Issue 1. Alshamali M. (2020). Assessment of Implementation of Green Buildings Strategies: Syrian Case Study. Jordan J Appl Sci Nat Sci Ser, Volume (14), No 1. Shamsi M. (2024).The role of anticipating the future in overcoming the challenges of environmental sustainability In the United Arab Emirates. Sharia and Law Magazine in Cairo, Volume 43, Issue 43 - Serial Number of Issue 43. Maya R, Hasan R. (2021). Proposing Criteria for Assessing the Sustainability of Residential Buildings in Syria and Measuring their application. Tishreen University Journal. Eng. Sciences Series, Volume (3) Issue (31). Mustafa M. (2018).Analysis of critical factors affecting labor productivity in the construction industry.Tishreen University Journal for Research and Scientific Studies - Engineering Sciences Series Vol. (04) No. (3). Mohammed S, Zakaria A, Deyab W. Obstacles of the construction industry in Red Sea State. Humanities & Natural Sciences Journal; 2023. Zabihi H, Habib F, Mirsaeedi L. Sustainability in Building and Construction. Revising Definitions and Concepts; 2012. Ali N. (2012). Sustainability in Building and Construction: Revising Definitions and Concepts. Esa MR, Marhani M, Hasan A. Obstacles in Implementing Green Building Projects in Malaysia. Aust J Basic Appl Sci. 2011;5(12):1806–12. Ismael N, Hussain A. (2019). Constraints of green buildings in Iraqi cities. Iraqi Journal of Architecture and Planning. Volume (15) Issue (1). SHEN L. Y., WU G. W. C., AND NG C. S. K. Risk Assessment for Construction Joint Ventures in China, Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, Vol. 127, No. 1, 2001. Hassan B, Beshara M. (2015). The Evaluation of the Syrian experience in building construction approach with the concepts of the industrialized building system and identifying aspects and factors of development. Footnotes The Building Services Research and Information Association (BSRIA) is an independent, scientific organization dedicated to disseminating knowledge and providing specialized services to stakeholders in the building and construction services sector. Its mission is to improve the quality of buildings by enhancing their environmental, operational, and professional values, and it supports the sector by providing guidance and solutions. Chart 1 Chart 1 is available in the Supplementary Files section. Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Supplementary Files Chart1.png Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. Our growing team is made up of researchers and industry professionals working together to solve the most critical problems facing scientific publishing. Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-8006905","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":566917756,"identity":"26515a4a-9c30-4721-9008-72a87b14f8a8","order_by":0,"name":"Mohammed Ali Alshamali","email":"data:image/png;base64,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","orcid":"","institution":"Damascus University","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Mohammed","middleName":"Ali","lastName":"Alshamali","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2025-11-01 16:23:17","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8006905/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8006905/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":99316753,"identity":"24a0e18b-7b20-43fc-8249-35603e57c9a2","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-31 16:29:07","extension":"docx","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":104606,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"Research.sustainabilityobstacles.29.11.2025.docx","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8006905/v1/5a8ebcb2cd787e0039f7f524.docx"},{"id":99208265,"identity":"993d7126-2566-42c9-a5f6-04cde4d81c97","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-30 07:21:32","extension":"json","order_by":1,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":4676,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"72d85bf9601b49a8aa8ea595994f3949.json","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8006905/v1/9475a30d3db26958e1280a3d.json"},{"id":99208266,"identity":"82af1a92-2fc2-4256-890b-8b5d85bbdae2","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-30 07:21:32","extension":"xml","order_by":2,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":83948,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"72d85bf9601b49a8aa8ea595994f39491enriched.xml","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8006905/v1/6e874041b7c91fdc0583ad46.xml"},{"id":99318080,"identity":"26a5c038-1468-417d-b454-826f3f3094ff","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-31 16:31:26","extension":"jpeg","order_by":4,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":76678,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"floatimage1.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8006905/v1/3bc95d897ec9f4ff85daad97.jpeg"},{"id":99208264,"identity":"4675b704-68e2-4914-a3b9-1749af18f385","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-30 07:21:32","extension":"png","order_by":5,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":52879,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"Onlinefloatimage1.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8006905/v1/c1dd43f8088f3d0bbfe2be88.png"},{"id":99208267,"identity":"ea71cf38-906e-4645-9b7a-c19471b6bccf","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-30 07:21:32","extension":"xml","order_by":6,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":80419,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"72d85bf9601b49a8aa8ea595994f39491structuring.xml","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8006905/v1/2c685c5f286dd122309d3892.xml"},{"id":99208269,"identity":"5522e955-5b48-418a-9f1b-7ebbcace09e0","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-30 07:21:32","extension":"html","order_by":7,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":92534,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"earlyproof.html","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8006905/v1/340a2962c91b556e20258e0f.html"},{"id":99208261,"identity":"53a56b72-e0ce-437f-80a1-e8af96047434","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-30 07:21:32","extension":"jpg","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":45672,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResearch Steps\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"1.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8006905/v1/c4d7cd6171a5e3271a683fdc.jpg"},{"id":100796352,"identity":"aaae7f72-0236-4e94-a124-f9883935037a","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-01-21 13:42:44","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":1227057,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8006905/v1/86431771-a98f-4671-b173-312abddb09cb.pdf"},{"id":99319198,"identity":"de7a8cb0-4d3d-4330-b287-e533cacc7f79","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-31 16:36:38","extension":"png","order_by":1,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"supplement","size":490630,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"Chart1.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8006905/v1/11b918e38bfb9511fd1d6c51.png"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Analysis of the Obstacles Facing Sustainability in the Syrian Construction Industry","fulltext":[{"header":"1. Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe construction sector contributes more than 50% of global capital investments and approximately 7% of global employment (Reed R. et al., 2009). Therefore, the concept of sustainability has expanded steadily over the past decades and is currently a major focus of most urban development projects.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBy studying the current situation and consulting numerous experts, including engineers and academics working within the Syrian construction industry, it became clear that Syria, like some other countries around the world, suffers from many traditional contemporary challenges and problems, such as urban expansion, population explosion, increased demand for housing, desertification, water scarcity, environmental pollution, excessive depletion of land resources, global warming, and increased greenhouse gas emissions, not to mention the tragic war conditions that have destroyed infrastructure and superstructure. Although the construction sector is a key element in shaping our urban identity, the reality of construction in the Syrian construction industry faces unique challenges, such as weak infrastructure and basic services such as electricity, water, and transportation, in addition to weak and insufficient funding, high costs, a great need for housing, excessive consumption of resources without reliance on renewable sources, and pollution problems resulting from construction waste and other factors. All these challenges, in addition to the need for economic growth, a boost to the gross domestic product (GDP), and the urgent need for reconstruction, compel us to adopt modern strategies, such as sustainability, at the national level. These strategies enable us to design solutions that address contemporary problems and build on reality, overcoming future obstacles. They also require us to explore ways to harness resources, capabilities, and tools to serve sustainable development in Syria.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis research will analyze the most significant obstacles to the adoption of sustainability in Syria, determine the importance of each, and identify priorities. This will then lead to proposals and recommendations to address these obstacles and enhance sustainability within the Syrian construction industry.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"2. Research Topic","content":"\u003cp\u003eWhen examining the environmental and economic conditions and limited resources in Syria, we realize that the need for sustainability technologies and concepts is no less urgent than in other countries. Furthermore, the construction sector in Syria lacks sustainable building applications and technologies in most projects. This is due to numerous economic, technical, engineering, social, and other challenges and obstacles. Most construction projects rely on the prevailing thinking of stakeholders, relying on methods and techniques characterized by rapid completion and high profitability, without taking into account environmental aspects and sustainable building systems that provide diverse environmental, economic, and social benefits.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAs Syria is currently entering a phase of reconstruction, it is imperative to seize the opportunity and adopt an approach to designing and constructing cities and buildings that preserves the environment and resources for future generations. This approach focuses on energy and material efficiency, reducing waste and pollution, and improving the quality of life within buildings.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis research will analyze the challenges and obstacles facing sustainability in the Syrian construction industry, assess the relative importance of these obstacles, and develop recommendations and proposals to address these obstacles and promote sustainability in Syria.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"3. Research Objectives","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe research aims to:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eAnalyze the obstacles to adopting sustainable building technologies in the Syrian construction sector, by examining the local context and reviewing previous relevant studies.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eCalculate the relative importance of obstacles by designing a suitable questionnaire and involving engineers, project managers, and academic researchers interested in this type of research.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eRank the obstacles in descending order using the relative importance index.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eDevelop proposals and recommendations to address challenges and obstacles and promote the adoption of sustainable technologies in the Syrian construction sector.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e "},{"header":"4. Reference studies","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn their study (Obstacles to green building accreditation during operating phases: identifying Challenges and solutions for sustainable development ), researcher M. and colleagues confirmed that the biggest obstacles to adopting green buildings during the operational phases are inconsistencies in government regulations, market constraints that hinder developers' interests, and the difficulty of meeting technological standards. The findings also underscore the urgent need for policymakers, market participants, and technology developers to collaborate and address identified challenges to ensure the sustainability of green buildings. Overall, this study contributes to expanding the knowledge base on green building practices and provides valuable insights for stakeholders to facilitate the development of sustainable buildings. By addressing the identified obstacles, the study can maximize the benefits of green buildings and promote environmentally friendly construction practices.( Karamoozian, M. Zhang, H. 2023)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThrough the research (Assessment of Implementation of Green Buildings Strategies: Syrian Case Study) the northern researcher shed light on the global assessment systems for green buildings that have recently become widespread, especially in developed countries. He then identified the assessment systems adopted in the Middle East region, deduced the standards adopted within those systems, and then organized them in a questionnaire that determines the importance and extent of the application of green building standards in the construction industry in Syria, and suggested some solutions to improve the reality of the application of those standards within the Syrian construction industry.(Alshamali 2020)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe study reached a number of results and recommendations, the most important of which are: that foreseeing the future contributes to creating a sustainable environmental future for future generations, achieving the country's goals, enhancing its global competitiveness, and keeping pace with the future visions of its wise leadership. It is not yet clear what the future of environmental sustainability will look like, and that we still need to know more. The research also recommends the need to formulate a future vision with a pioneering orientation based on foreseeing the environmental future and predicting its threats based mainly on strategic analysis to explore future opportunities and expected environmental threats. Environmental protection is the mainstay of sustainability and many of the key concerns of humanity's future, i.e. sustainability determines how ecosystems are studied and protected, and how technology is driven to build a more sustainable environmental future.( Shamsi, 2024)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThrough their study (Proposing Criteria for Assessing the Sustainability of Residential Buildings in Syria and Measuring their application), researcher Maya and her colleague designed a measuring tool to measure the level of sustainability application in residential infrastructure projects and distributed it to a sample of respondents within the design and implementation specializations. The most important criteria were identified for Syrian conditions. The criteria were divided into seven axes, each with a number of sub-criteria. The measurement was carried out using a five-point Likert scale, and the relative importance of each axis was determined. The study concluded that the most important criteria in both the design and implementation phases are energy efficiency and the economic aspect, as the most important criteria can be utilized in designing a sustainable housing model.(Maya,R. Hasan, R. 2021)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn his study, researcher Mustafa used the relative importance index (RII) or degree of risk method to rank the causes of low labor productivity. The study concluded that the most important causes affecting labor productivity are: low salaries, unavailability of materials, etc.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe study presented by researcher Salma and her colleagues entitled (Obstacles of the construction industry in Red Sea State) showed the most important factors affecting the construction sector, which are the change in the exchange rate, non-adherence to the timetable, fluctuations in material prices, weak incentives and wages, poor planning, and force majeure.)Mohammed, S. Zakaria, Ali. Deyab, W. 2023).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThrough their study (Sustainability in Building and Construction: Revising Definitions and Concepts ), researcher Zabihi and colleagues presented a comprehensive definition as a model for building sustainability. Some key aspects and categories of sustainability in architecture and construction were also presented. Sustainability aspects in buildings were classified into four groups of environmental, social, economic, and technical issues. Each group presents some general factors. The characteristics mentioned are some of the elements that align with the principles and goals of sustainability and are effective in achieving sustainability goals. (Zabihi, H. et al. 2012)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThrough their study (Sustainability in Building and Construction: Revising Definitions and Concepts ), researcher Zabihi and colleagues presented a comprehensive definition as a model for building sustainability. Some key aspects and categories of sustainability in architecture and construction were also presented. Sustainability aspects in buildings were classified into four groups of environmental, social, economic, and technical issues. Each group presents some general factors. The characteristics mentioned are some of the elements that align with the principles and goals of sustainability and are effective in achieving sustainability goals.(Ali, N. 2012)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThrough their study (Obstacles in Implementing Green Building Projects in Malaysia) researcher Ben Esa and his colleagues concluded that the most significant obstacles lie in the lack of awareness, education, and information about the benefits of constructing green buildings. They recommended a qualitative shift and the search for greener, more environmentally friendly, and energy-saving options. Raising awareness is the first and essential step to ensuring the sustainability of green buildings. (Esa, M R. Marhani, M. Hasan, A 2011)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eResearcher Ismail and his colleague also pointed out through their research (Constraints of green buildings in Iraqi cities ) that there are many obstacles that hinder the establishment of green buildings in Iraqi cities, the most important of which are the laws and legislation that need to be enacted in a way that is compatible with technological progress in the field of architecture, in addition to technical, financial and other obstacles.(Ismael, N. Hussain, A 2019).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSHEN and colleagues have prepared a research paper titled \"Risk Assessment for Construction Joint Ventures in China.\" This paper uses a risk importance index to demonstrate the relative importance of risks associated with joint ventures in Chinese construction procurement practices. It examines real-life cases to illustrate the risk environment faced by joint ventures. The paper also explores the practical applications of risk management in joint venture businesses.(Shen 2001).\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"5. Research methodology and steps","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe descriptive analytical approach was used in the context of this research to achieve the desired objectives of analyzing the obstacles facing sustainability in the Syrian construction industry, calculating their importance through designing an appropriate questionnaire, and then prioritizing these obstacles using the relative importance index(RII). Figures\u0026nbsp;(1) below illustrates the research steps.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"6. Sustainable buildings in the construction industry","content":"\u003cp\u003eDemand for construction projects has increased dramatically in recent decades to manage population growth and economic activity. The construction industry has the greatest impact on the environment among most industries (Xiaoling Zhang et al., 2014). Therefore, there is a distinct need to implement a sustainable built environment in practice. The Building Services Research and Information Association (\u003cb\u003eBSRIA\u003c/b\u003e\u003csup\u003e1\u003c/sup\u003e) defines sustainable buildings as: \"responsible management and the creation of a healthy environment based on resource efficiency and environmental principles.\"\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThere is a lot of previous research that shows the great and growing concern about sustainability, which in turn drives the construction industry to pay great attention to building sustainable buildings. A major reason for this is that buildings have very high rates of energy consumption and large amounts of harmful gases produced by residential homes, which are estimated to be about 40% of the total energy consumption and domestic gases emitted in developed countries (IPCC, 2015; UNEP, 2009). In addition, the contribution of the construction sector to the global economy is very high, which makes the trend towards achieving sustainability increasingly important.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSustainable design and sustainable construction are concepts that express new methods and approaches to design and construction that address the environmental and economic challenges that have cast a shadow over various sectors in this era. New buildings are designed, implemented, and operated using advanced methods and technologies that contribute to reducing environmental impact while simultaneously reducing costs, particularly operating and maintenance costs. They also contribute to providing a safe and comfortable urban environment () [9]. Therefore, the reasons for adopting the concept of sustainability in the urban sector are no different from the motives that led to the emergence and adoption of the concept of sustainable development with its intertwined environmental, economic, and social dimensions. There have been no longer any dividing lines between the environment and the economy since the emergence and spread of the concept of sustainable development, which has confirmed beyond doubt that ensuring the continuity of economic growth cannot be achieved in light of the threat to the environment from pollutants and waste, the destruction of its vital systems, and the depletion of its natural resources.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"7. Identifying the Challenges Hindering Sustainability in the Construction Industry","content":"\u003cp\u003eIn order to identify the obstacles and challenges facing sustainability in the Syrian construction industry, previous relevant studies were reviewed in several countries, particularly those with construction conditions similar to those in Syria. Interviews were also conducted with numerous engineers, project managers, business owners, and other professionals working in the Syrian construction industry, as well as academic experts and researchers interested in this type of research. Consequently, a set of (37) obstacles was identified, which are considered the most influential on sustainability in the construction industry in Syria.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"8. Collecting data on the challenges facing sustainability:","content":"\u003cp\u003eIn order to identify the most significant obstacles and challenges facing sustainability in the Syrian construction industry, relevant data must be collected and analyzed. Therefore, a suitable questionnaire was designed to consist of two parts:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe first part includes general information about the target audience of the questionnaire, namely engineers, project managers, and companies operating in the construction industry. Therefore, a suitable questionnaire was designed to consist of two parts: The first includes general information about the target audience, namely engineers, project managers, and companies operating within the construction industry.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe second focuses on the obstacles and challenges facing sustainability. All obstacles were grouped into (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e) packages as shown in Table\u0026nbsp;(1).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSustainability obstacles packages and their criteria\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"3\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eN0.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eobstacles packages\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSub-obstacles\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"5\" rowspan=\"6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFinancial and economic\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigh initial costs\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDecline in national income\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLack of funding sources\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLack of understanding of the financial return on investment\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLack of incentives\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWeak financial and institutional support\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"8\" rowspan=\"9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eEngineering and educational\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIgnoring advanced BIM technologies\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLack of training and qualifications in sustainable technologies\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIgnoring sustainability concepts in educational curricula\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eProblems with rapid and optimal decision-making\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLack of balance between sustainability dimensions\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eComplexity of integrated design\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifficulty gathering comprehensive information\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e14\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLack of appropriate building codes\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e15\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLack of investment in digital infrastructure\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"6\" rowspan=\"7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSocial and cultural\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eInsufficient awareness and education efforts\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e17\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIgnoring the social dimension of sustainability\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIndividual resistance to change\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e19\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLow income\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIgnorance of sustainable technologies\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLow demand and desire\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e22\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePrevailing awareness toward adopting less expensive technologies and quick profit\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e23\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTechnical\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigh costs of software and equipment\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e24\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLack of necessary expertise\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e25\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLack of skilled and trained labor\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e26\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLack of companies specializing in sustainable buildings\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e27\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNatural and External\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNatural disasters and earthquakes\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e28\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWeather, climate conditions, and floods\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e29\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNature of the geographical location\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e30\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWars and conflicts\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e31\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"6\" rowspan=\"7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAdministrative Obstacles\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLack of Resources and Materials\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e32\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWeak Government Support\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e33\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLack of Sustainable Infrastructure\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e34\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifficulty in Availing Sustainable Materials and Technologies\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e35\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWeak Institutional Coordination\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e36\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLack of Supportive Policies and Enforceable Legislation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e37\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWeak Private Sector Participation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"9. Discussion of Results","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe questionnaire was distributed to a random sample of 80 participants from the study population. Seventy-two questionnaires were returned, and two were excluded for lack of effectiveness. Statistical analysis and induction were conducted on 70 questionnaires, which is considered sufficient for the sample size, table (2) shows information about the sample members\u0026apos; experiences.\u003c/p\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003ctable id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe experience of the sample members\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eExperience (years)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRepetition\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePercentage%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLess than 5 years\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.5%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6\u0026ndash;10\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18.5%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11\u0026ndash;15\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16\u0026ndash;20\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOver 21 years\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTable \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e shows that the percentage of respondents with more than 10 years of experience exceeds 70%, while the percentage of those with more than 6 years of experience is 88.5%. This indicates that most survey participants have extensive experience, which reassures the validity of the results.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec9\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e9.1. Obstacles to sustainability in the Syrian construction industry\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAfter collecting the questionnaires and data for the second part of the questionnaire, the relative importance index method was used to determine the relative importance of the obstacles facing sustainability in the Syrian construction industry for all the packages included in the questionnaire, using the following two relationships (Shen, 2001).\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"data:image/png;base64,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\"\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere\u003c/strong\u003e:\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\:{\\text{s}}_{\\text{j}}^{\\text{i}}\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/span\u003e \u003csub\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026minus;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/sub\u003e The importance of the obstacle (i) is defined by the response (j).\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026alpha;\u003c/strong\u003e \u003csup\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003ei\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003e \u003csub\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003ej -\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sub\u003e The probability of the obstacle occurring (i) is defined by the response (j)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026beta;\u003c/strong\u003e \u003csup\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003ei\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003e \u003csub\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003ej\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sub\u003e - The impact of the obstacle (i) on the construction industry is defined by the response (j)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRSIS\u003c/strong\u003e \u003csup\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003cstrong\u003ei\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e-\u003c/strong\u003e Relative importance factor of the obstacle (i).\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003en - Number of effective responses.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe numerical values of the two factors (\u0026alpha;, \u0026beta;) were adopted within the range from (0) to (100) according to the following table:\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003ctable id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003efactors (\u0026alpha;, \u0026beta;) values\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ecoefficient (\u0026alpha;) probability of obstacle occurrence\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ecoefficient (\u0026beta;) of the effect of the occurrence of the obstacle\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSelect a value from 0-100%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSelect a value from 0-100%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe data from the questionnaire were entered into Excel spreadsheets, and calculations were performed using the two previous relationships. To determine the level of importance of sustainability barriers and assess risks (considering that sustainability barriers are considered risks facing the construction sector), a probability and impact matrix was created. This matrix identifies the values that lead to a priority assessment of the risks threatening sustainability, as shown in Table \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTable4. Risk Matrix\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003ctable style=\"border-collapse: collapse;border: none;width: 560px;\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" rowspan=\"2\" style=\"width:109.8pt;border:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:19.85pt;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:red;'\u003eRisk Matrix\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"5\" style=\"width:310.75pt;border-top:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.5pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:19.85pt;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003eImpact\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:61.05pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:19.85pt;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003eVery Weak\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:56.75pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:19.85pt;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003eWeak\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:66.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:19.85pt;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003eMedium\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:61.85pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:19.85pt;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003eHigh\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:65.1pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:19.85pt;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003eVery High\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" style=\"width:109.8pt;border:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:17.0pt;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003eProbability\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:61.05pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:17.0pt;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:#538135;'\u003e1_20\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:56.75pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:17.0pt;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:#538135;'\u003e21_40\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:66.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:17.0pt;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:#538135;'\u003e41_60\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:61.85pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:17.0pt;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:#538135;'\u003e61_80\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:65.1pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:17.0pt;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:#538135;'\u003e81_100\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:60.25pt;border:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003eVery High\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:49.55pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:#538135;'\u003e81_100\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:61.05pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e81\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family: \"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:56.75pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e1701\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:66.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e3321\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:61.85pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e4981\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:65.1pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:red;'\u003e6561\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:red;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:60.25pt;border:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003eHigh\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:49.55pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:#538135;'\u003e61_80\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:61.05pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e61\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family: \"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:56.75pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e1281\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:66.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e2501\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:61.85pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:red;'\u003e3721\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:red;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:65.1pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e4981\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:60.25pt;border:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003eMedium\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:49.55pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:#538135;'\u003e41_60\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:61.05pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e41\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family: \"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:56.75pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e861\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:66.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:red;'\u003e1681\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:red;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:61.85pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e2501\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:65.1pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e3321\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:60.25pt;border:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003eWeak\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:49.55pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:#538135;'\u003e21_40\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:61.05pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e21\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family: \"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:56.75pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:red;'\u003e441\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:red;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:66.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e861\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:61.85pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e1281\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:65.1pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e1701\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:60.25pt;border:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003eVery Weak\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:49.55pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:#538135;'\u003e1_20\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:61.05pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:red;'\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Cambria Math\",serif;color:red;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:56.75pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e21\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family: \"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:66.0pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e41\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family: \"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:61.85pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e61\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family: \"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width:65.1pt;border-top:none;border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;border-right:solid #C5E0B3 1.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in;\"\u003e\n \u003cp style='margin:0in;font-size:13px;font-family:\"Calibri\",sans-serif;text-align:center;vertical-align:middle;'\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family:\"Times New Roman\",serif;color:black;'\u003e81\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style='font-family: \"Cambria Math\",serif;color:black;'\u003e≦\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBased on the above, the levels of importance can be divided according to the risk matrix, as shown in Table \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e. Accordingly, the 12 most important potential obstacles to sustainability in the Syrian construction sector were ranked according to the relative importance index, as shown in Table \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003ctable id=\"Tab5\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 5\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRelative importance levels of sustainability challenges\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003ccolgroup cols=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eImportance level\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMinimum\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMaximum\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eVery Low\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e440\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLow\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e441\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1680\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMedium\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1681\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3720\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHigh\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3721\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4981\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eVery High\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4981\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6561≦\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv align=\"char\" class=\"colspec\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003ctable id=\"Tab6\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 6\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDescending order of barriers to sustainability in the construction industry, by importance index\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSort.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eobstacle\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eArithmetic Mean\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eImportance level\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHigh initial costs\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5600\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eV.H\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDifficulty in providing sustainable materials and technologies\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5250\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eV.H\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLack of skilled and trained labor\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5110\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eV.H\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLack of necessary expertise\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4900\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eH\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLack of appropriate building codes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4410\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eH\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInadequate awareness and education efforts\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3920\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eH\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIgnorance of sustainable technologies\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3640\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eM\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLow demand and desire\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3500\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eM\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDecline in national income\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3150\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eM\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eScarcity and lack of funding sources\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2800\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eM\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWars and conflicts\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2776\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eM\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWeak government support\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2753\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eM\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFrom Table (6), we note the very significant role of the high initial costs of sustainable facilities in hindering the adoption of these technologies in the construction industry. This is in addition to the difficulty of providing sustainable materials and technologies and their high cost, especially in the context of weak national income and lack of funding sources. The lack of skilled and well-trained labor in such technologies also complicates their adoption. Ignorance and lack of knowledge of the investment returns of such technologies, especially during the operation and maintenance phase, along with a lack of expertise, limited educational focus within curricula, and declining government encouragement, have all had a significant negative impact on their adoption within the Syrian construction industry. Wars and conflicts also hinder development in the construction industry in general and reliance on sustainable technologies in particular.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec10\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e9.2. Ranking the obstacles according to the main clusters based on the relative importance index:\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe following table (7) shows the ranking of the packages of obstacles facing sustainability in the Syrian construction industry according to the importance index, based on the results of the questionnaire analysis. It is also shown in the chart (1).\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv align=\"char\" class=\"colspec\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003ctable id=\"Tab7\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 7\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRanking of obstacle packages based on relative importance index (RII)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSort.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eObstacle Packages\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eArithmetic Mean\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRelative Importance %\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinancial and Economic\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e31450\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e4\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdministrative\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20967\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e3\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEducational and Engineering\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23587\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e5\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTechnical\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15725\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e6\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNatural and external\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11793\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSocial and Cultural\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27518\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFrom Table (6), we note that the financial and economic obstacles had the highest percentage of importance (24%), followed by the social obstacles at a rate of (21%), then the educational and engineering obstacles (18%), then the administrative obstacles (16%), then the technical obstacles (12%), then the natural and external obstacles (9%), and this is what the chart (1) shows.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"10. Conclusions","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study confirmed the weakness in adopting sustainable building technologies in the Syrian construction industry. This is due to a number of challenges and obstacles that hinder the adoption of such technologies, most notably economic and financial challenges due to high construction costs, declining national income, a lack of funding sources, and a lack of government incentives. Furthermore, there are social challenges related to ignorance and a lack of awareness within society about the environmental, social, and economic benefits of sustainable buildings. This is in addition to the prevailing societal mindset that favors projects that achieve rapid completion and quick profits, while overlooking the financial benefits that sustainable projects can generate, particularly during the operation and maintenance phase. We also note a lack of seriousness in adopting sustainable technologies within the curricula of engineering colleges in Syrian universities, and a failure to update construction industry codes to meet modern requirements and keep pace with developments and technology. Furthermore, there is a lack of expertise and a skilled, experienced workforce trained in sustainable technologies. It is also important to note the significant negative impact of conflicts and wars in hindering the development of the construction industry in general, and the adoption of sustainable building technologies in particular.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"11. Recommendations","content":"\u003cp\u003eThere is no doubt that the upcoming reconstruction phase in Syria will be an important locomotive that will constitute the main incentive and driver in the development and construction process in general, which will positively reflect on all economic sectors and in all fields. There is no doubt that the construction industry is one of the most important sectors that will be targeted by this phase. Modern technologies must be used in reconstruction and benefit as much as possible from the experiences of some Arab, regional or international countries in accordance with the economic policies followed in Syria. This research presents a set of proposals and recommendations that may help in adopting sustainable technologies in the construction industry in Syria, including:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. Activating the role of environmental institutions and evaluating sustainability-related policies and decisions to ensure integration between all environmental, economic, and social aspects and prevent conflicts between them, and granting tax exemptions or direct support to projects that adopt sustainability standards.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2. Developing specialized training programs to prepare qualified engineers and technicians in the field of sustainability and modern construction technologies.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3. The need to enhance the application of sustainability concepts by taking into account cultural, social, and economic factors when making decisions or developing future plans.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4. Utilizing sustainable green building rating systems in countries across the region and around the world and working to develop a rating system specifically for buildings in Syria.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5. Reviewing approved building codes and developing them to keep pace with modern developments and adopting modern technologies and sustainability concepts.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e6. The media must play an active role in raising public awareness of sustainable buildings by disseminating and marketing sustainable engineering projects and highlighting the economic, social, and environmental benefits of investing in sustainable construction.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e7- Work to develop teaching curricula in engineering colleges across various Syrian public and private universities, including curricula focused on sustainability and modern construction technologies.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e8- Strengthen cooperation and coordination between local and international research and study centers, and allocate a special budget for scientific research focused on sustainability.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcknowledgements: \u003c/strong\u003eThe researcher would like to thank the editors for their assistance in preparing the manuscript in a scientifically sound manner and for their prompt cooperation in making the required amendments\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor statement: \u003c/strong\u003eI confirm that the work presented in this paper is original and has been carried out with full adherence to ethical guidelines. All sources and references used in the development of this study have been properly cited. I affirm that there are no conflicts of interest regarding the publication of this work and that all data, analyses, and conclusions presented are accurate and reflect the findings of my research.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor contributions: \u003c/strong\u003eMohammed Ali Alshamali solely conceived the study, conducted the data analysis, interpreted the results, and wrote the manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthical statement: \u003c/strong\u003eThis study involves collecting data through questionnaires from participants, including engineers, project managers, and companies operating in the construction sector. An agreement was reached with these participants to ensure the confidentiality of their personal information or scientific answers, and the researcher pledged to them in this regard. The researcher promised to deliver a copy of the study if it is approved for publication in your esteemed journal. The research ethics followed for scientific publication in the Damascus University Journal of Engineering Sciences (Damascus, Syria) were adopted. In accordance with the National Guide for the Ethics of Scientific Research and Modern Technological Applications, prepared by the National Committee for the Ethics of Scientific and Technological Knowledge at the Higher Authority for Scientific Research, and implemented by Damascus University. https://journal.damascusuniversity.edu.sy/index.php/dujc/Ethics\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthical approval and accordance:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthical approval and accordance: \u003c/strong\u003eThe researcher collected the sample (questionnaire) in accordance with the National Guidelines for Ethics in Scientific Research and Modern Technological Applications, prepared by the National Committee for Ethics in Scientific and Technological Knowledge at the Higher Commission for Scientific Research and implemented by Damascus University, and adopted by the Damascus University Journal of Engineering Affairs.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthical approval statement\u003c/strong\u003e: The protocol was approved by [the National Committee for Ethics of Scientific and Technological Knowledge at the Higher Commission for Scientific Research accredited at Damascus University] in accordance with [the National Guide for Ethics of Scientific Research and Modern Technological Applications].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003econsent to publish statement: \u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\"Informed consent was obtained from all participants in this study\". The researcher confirms that all survey participants\u0026mdash;experts, academic researchers, project and company managers, and adult engineers\u0026mdash;had no objection to participating and agreed to the confidentiality of their data, including their personal information and scientific responses.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eParticipant identification data\u003c/strong\u003e: \"Not applicable\" due to the absence of identifying data or images within the manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublication Consent:\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublication approval: \u003c/strong\u003eThe researcher has reviewed the study thoroughly and confirms that he approves of publication.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding: \u003c/strong\u003eThis research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData availability: \u003c/strong\u003eAll data generated or analyzed during this study are included in this published article.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompeting interests: \u003c/strong\u003eThe authors declare no competing interests.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eXiaoling, Zhang, et al. A prototype system dynamic model for assessing the sustainability of construction projects. Int J Project Manage. 2014;32:66\u0026ndash;76.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIPCC. 2015. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttp://www.ipcc.ch/\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"http://www.ipcc.ch/\" targettype=\"URL\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUNEP-SBCI. 2009. United Nations Environment Programme \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttp://www.unep.org/sbci/\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"http://www.unep.org/sbci/\" targettype=\"URL\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDeep R, Suleiman D. M. Planning for Sustainable Development, research published in the context of a doctoral dissertation, Damascus University Journal of Engineering Sciences, Volume Twenty-Five - Issue One \u0026ndash;\u0026thinsp;2009.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReed R et al. 2009. International Comparison of Sustainable Rating Tools. JOSRE 1.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKaramoozian M, Zhang H. (2023). Obstacles to green building accreditation during operating phases: identifying Challenges and solutions for sustainable development. Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, Volume 24, 2025, Issue 1.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlshamali M. (2020). Assessment of Implementation of Green Buildings Strategies: Syrian Case Study. Jordan J Appl Sci Nat Sci Ser, Volume (14), No 1.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShamsi M. (2024).The role of anticipating the future in overcoming the challenges of environmental sustainability In the United Arab Emirates. Sharia and Law Magazine in Cairo, Volume 43, Issue 43 - Serial Number of Issue 43.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaya R, Hasan R. (2021). Proposing Criteria for Assessing the Sustainability of Residential Buildings in Syria and Measuring their application. Tishreen University Journal. Eng. Sciences Series, Volume (3) Issue (31).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMustafa M. (2018).Analysis of critical factors affecting labor productivity in the construction industry.Tishreen University Journal for Research and Scientific Studies - Engineering Sciences Series Vol. (04) No. (3).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMohammed S, Zakaria A, Deyab W. Obstacles of the construction industry in Red Sea State. Humanities \u0026amp; Natural Sciences Journal; 2023.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZabihi H, Habib F, Mirsaeedi L. Sustainability in Building and Construction. Revising Definitions and Concepts; 2012.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAli N. (2012). Sustainability in Building and Construction: Revising Definitions and Concepts.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEsa MR, Marhani M, Hasan A. Obstacles in Implementing Green Building Projects in Malaysia. Aust J Basic Appl Sci. 2011;5(12):1806\u0026ndash;12.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIsmael N, Hussain A. (2019). Constraints of green buildings in Iraqi cities. Iraqi Journal of Architecture and Planning. Volume (15) Issue (1).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSHEN L. Y., WU G. W. C., AND NG C. S. K. Risk Assessment for Construction Joint Ventures in China, Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, Vol. 127, No. 1, 2001.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHassan B, Beshara M. (2015). The Evaluation of the Syrian experience in building construction approach with the concepts of the industrialized building system and identifying aspects and factors of development.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"},{"header":"Footnotes","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e The Building Services Research and Information Association (BSRIA) is an independent, scientific organization dedicated to disseminating knowledge and providing specialized services to stakeholders in the building and construction services sector. Its mission is to improve the quality of buildings by enhancing their environmental, operational, and professional values, and it supports the sector by providing guidance and solutions.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"},{"header":"Chart 1","content":"\u003cp\u003eChart 1 is available in the Supplementary Files section.\u003c/p\u003e\n"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Sustainability, Construction Industry, Sustainable Technologies, Sustainability Obstacles, Relative Importance Index (RII), Syria","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8006905/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8006905/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eThe construction sector in Syria plays a fundamental role in shaping urban identity. Therefore, there is an urgent need to change traditional building design and implementation patterns to make them more sustainable. Although sustainable building practices achieve environmental, social, and economic benefits by conserving resources, rationalizing energy and water consumption, improving the indoor environment and public health, preserving resources for future generations, and reducing costs, especially during the operation and maintenance phase, reliance on sustainable technologies in the Syrian construction sector remains limited or almost non-existent. This is due to the presence of numerous challenges and obstacles that hinder the adoption of these technologies, including economic, financial, social, engineering, educational, external, natural, and other obstacles. In the context of this research, the challenges and obstacles hindering sustainability in the construction industry in Syria were analyzed by examining the local reality and reviewing several relevant previous studies. A set of (37) obstacles was identified and divided into (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e) categories. A suitable questionnaire was then designed to determine the relative importance of these obstacles and rank them in descending order using the Relative Importance Index (RII). The results showed that the most significant obstacles were financial and economic (24%), followed by social (21%), engineering and educational (18%), administrative (16%), technical and technological (12%), and natural and external (9%). A set of proposals and recommendations were developed to address these obstacles and promote the adoption of sustainability technologies in the Syrian construction sector, particularly during the upcoming reconstruction phase.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Analysis of the Obstacles Facing Sustainability in the Syrian Construction Industry","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-12-30 07:21:24","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8006905/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"c209f68a-d4f1-40d5-bf67-e472169483f6","owner":[],"postedDate":"December 30th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-01-16T11:41:59+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-12-30 07:21:24","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-8006905","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-8006905","identity":"rs-8006905","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}