From Construction Practices in
Developing Countries
SECOND EDITION
By Cosmas Oseyende Ehimioboh i, Godwin Jerome Anoh ii, Obi Ndudi Uchi i, Oluchukwu Precious-Favour Nzeneri i
¹Department of Building
²Department of Quantity Surveying
Dennis Osadebay University
Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria
Abstract
The construction industry is a vital sector in developing countries, driving economic growth and infrastructure development. However, this growth comes at a significant environmental cost. The industry is a significant source of pollution, with direct and indirect environmental impacts. Construction practices in developing countries often prioritize economic growth over environmental sustainability. Therefore, the study examine the management of environmental pollution from construction practices in developing countries. By identifying challenges, types and sources of environmental pollution from construction practices, and explore management strategies and regulatory frameworks. The research approach was a descriptive literature review synthesizing existing literature on environmental pollution from construction practices in developing countries. The study found that the enormous quantity of construction wastes produced by construction projects causes serious pollution to the surrounding natural environment and disrupts the daily lives of surrounding residents through land, water and air pollution. Similarly, inadequate regulatory frameworks, lack of awareness and resources and limited capacity hinder effective management. Consequently, it is concluded that effective management of environmental pollution is crucial for sustainable development in developing countries. The core of green construction lies in the full-process control of existing and potential pollutants in construction sites. Based on this, it is recommended that policymakers and practitioners should prioritize sustainable construction practices, effective waste management, and robust regulatory frameworks. The implementation of these initiatives will reduce environmental pollution and promote sustainable development in developing countries. Furthermore, additional research is necessary to develop context-specific solutions and evaluate the effectiveness of management strategies in developing countries.
Keywords: Environmental Pollution, Construction Practices, Management Strategies, Regulatory Framework, Developing Countries.
1.0 Introduction
The construction industry is complex due to the involvement of numerous parties, including owners, contractors, consultants, stakeholders, and regulators. This industry significantly contributes to societal development and achievement of goals (Ametepey et al., 2022; Enshassi et al., 2009). Construction projects, including new buildings, roads, and mega structures, directly impact national and local community development, particularly in urban areas. Construction sites are found both within urban and rural areas, often in the proximity of homes. In the life cycle of a construction project, there are several activities that impact the built environment and human beings nearby, these construction activities include construction, demolition, and renovation. Every industry has an impact on the environment, but construction is considered the main source of pollution. The construction and operation of buildings have a significant direct and indirect impact on the environment (Zolfagharian et al., 2012).
More…
To read entire article, click here
Editor’s note: Second Editions are previously published papers that have continued relevance in today’s project management world, or which were originally published in conference proceedings or in a language other than English. Original publication acknowledged; authors retain copyright. This paper was originally presented at the 1st International Conference, The Quantity Surveyor’s Edge, Department of Quantity Surveying, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, Nigeria, 25-26 June 2025. It is republished here with permission of the authors and conference organizers.
How to cite this paper: Ehimioboh, C. O., Anoh, G. J., Uchi, O. N., Nzeneri, O. P-F. (2026). Management of Environmental Pollution From Construction Practices in Developing Countries; Originally presented at the 1st International Conference, The Quantity Surveyor’s Edge, Department of Quantity Surveying, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, Nigeria, 25-26 June 2025; republished in the PM World Journal, Vol. XV, Issue VII, July, 2026. Available online at https://pmworldjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/pmwj166-Jul2026-Management-of-EnvironmentalPollution-from-Construction-2.pdf
About the Authors
Cosmas Oseyende Ehimioboh
Delta State, Nigeria
Cosmas Oseyende EHIMIOBOH is a Lecturer in the Department of Building at Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria. He specializes in Building, with research interests in construction practices, building materials, and sustainable development in the built environment. He holds academic and professional qualifications in Building and Construction Management and is actively engaged in teaching and research. He is a member of the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) and the Association of Builders in Academia (ABA). His contributions support advancements in construction management, housing development, and building technology, and he demonstrates a strong commitment to academic excellence and professional development.
Godwin Jerome Anoh
Delta State, Nigeria
Godwin Jerome ANOH is a dedicated academic and professional in the field of Quantity Surveying, and currently serving as a Lecturer at Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba-Delta State, Nigeria. He is a PhD student with a strong academic foundation, holding a Master of Technology (M.Tech) degree in Quantity Surveying. He specializes in Quantity Surveying Practices, where he focuses on advancing knowledge and improving standards within the construction industry. Through his teachings and research, he contributes to the development of competent professionals in the built environment. He is a cooperate member of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) as well as a registered Quantity Surveyor with the Quantity Surveyors Registration Board of Nigeria (QSRBN). His professional affiliations reflect his commitment to ethical practice, continuous professional development, and excellence in quantity surveying.
Oluchukwu Precious-favour Nzeneri, PhD
Delta State, Nigeria
Oluchukwu Precious-favour NZENERI is currently a Lecturer in the Department of Building , Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria. She holds a Doctor Of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Construction Management. She is actively engaged in teaching and research; and also a member of FES Research/seminar Committee. Her area of specialization is Construction management, with research interest in Safety Management in Buildings, Construction skilled labour, Building Materials, and Sustainable construction materials. She is a Corporate member of the Nigerian of Building (NIOB). Also, a member of Association of Professional Women Builders of Nigeria (APWBN); and Women Academics in Construction (WAiC).
Obi Ndudi Uche
Delta State, Nigeria
Obi Ndudi Uche is a Lecturer in the Department of Building at Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria. He specializes in Building, with research interests in construction management, building maintenance, and sustainable development in the built environment. He holds academic qualifications in Building and Construction Management and is actively engaged in teaching and research. He is a member of the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) and the Association of Builders in Academia (ABA). His contributions support advancements in construction management, housing development, and building technology, and he demonstrates a strong commitment to academic excellence.
