Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The construction industry plays a significant role in global economic development and is a major contributor to environmental impacts. Sustainable construction practices have emerged as a critical consideration in the industry to address environmental concerns and promote long-term viability. Effective cost management strategies are essential for the successful implementation of sustainable construction projects. This thesis investigates the cost management strategies employed in sustainable construction projects through a comprehensive case study analysis. The introduction provides a background to the study, outlining the importance of sustainable construction and the challenges associated with cost management in such projects. The problem statement highlights the gap in existing literature regarding cost management strategies in sustainable construction projects, emphasizing the need for a focused investigation. The objectives of the study are to analyze current cost management practices in sustainable construction, identify key challenges, and propose effective strategies for enhancing cost efficiency. The literature review examines existing research on sustainable construction, cost management, and their intersection. Key themes include sustainable construction principles, cost estimation methods, life cycle costing, green building certifications, and the role of stakeholders in cost management. The review synthesizes relevant literature to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. The research methodology section outlines the approach taken in conducting the case study analysis. Data collection methods include document analysis, interviews with project stakeholders, and site observations. The selection criteria for the case study projects are based on their adherence to sustainable construction practices and the availability of cost data for analysis. The findings from the case study analysis reveal common cost management challenges faced by sustainable construction projects, such as initial cost premiums, uncertainty in life cycle costing, and the lack of standardized metrics for evaluating sustainability performance. The discussion section explores these findings in detail, highlighting the need for integrated cost management strategies that consider both financial and sustainability aspects. In conclusion, this thesis proposes a framework for enhancing cost management in sustainable construction projects. The framework emphasizes the importance of early cost planning, stakeholder engagement, and the use of advanced cost estimation tools. The significance of the study lies in its contribution to improving cost efficiency and sustainability outcomes in construction projects. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into the cost management strategies for sustainable construction projects, offering practical recommendations for industry practitioners, policymakers, and researchers. By adopting the proposed framework, stakeholders can better navigate the complexities of cost management in sustainable construction, ultimately contributing to the advancement of environmentally responsible and economically viable construction practices.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Cost Management Strategies for Sustainable Construction Projects: A Case Study Analysis" aims to explore and analyze the implementation of cost management strategies in sustainable construction projects. Sustainable construction has gained significant importance in recent years due to the growing awareness of environmental issues and the need to reduce the impact of construction activities on the environment. Cost management is a critical aspect of project management, and integrating sustainability into cost management practices can lead to more efficient and environmentally friendly construction projects. The research will begin with an introduction to the topic, providing background information on sustainable construction and the importance of cost management in such projects. The problem statement will highlight the challenges and complexities associated with managing costs in sustainable construction projects. The objectives of the study will be outlined to guide the research process, focusing on identifying effective cost management strategies that promote sustainability. The study will also discuss the limitations and scope of the research, acknowledging any constraints that may impact the findings and defining the boundaries within which the study will be conducted. The significance of the study will be emphasized to highlight the potential contributions to the field of construction management and sustainability. The structure of the thesis will be outlined to provide a roadmap of the chapters and sections that will be included in the research. A comprehensive literature review will be conducted to explore existing theories, models, and best practices related to cost management and sustainability in construction projects. The review will cover various aspects such as life cycle costing, green building practices, sustainable procurement, and risk management in sustainable construction projects. The research methodology will be detailed in Chapter Three, outlining the research design, data collection methods, and analysis techniques that will be employed. The chapter will also discuss the sampling strategy, data sources, and ethical considerations that will guide the research process. Chapter Four will present the findings of the case study analysis, focusing on the application of cost management strategies in a real-world sustainable construction project. The discussion will explore the challenges, successes, and lessons learned from implementing these strategies, providing valuable insights for practitioners and researchers in the field. Finally, Chapter Five will provide a conclusion and summary of the research, highlighting the key findings, implications, and recommendations for future research and practice. The conclusion will tie together the research objectives, findings, and contributions of the study, reinforcing the importance of integrating cost management strategies with sustainability principles in construction projects. Overall, this research project will contribute to the body of knowledge on cost management strategies for sustainable construction projects, offering practical insights and recommendations for industry professionals and stakeholders involved in sustainable construction practices.