ENVIRONMENTAL CULTURE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY A KEY FACTOR FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The construction industry is one of the largest consumers of natural resources and a significant contributor to environmental degradation through the generation of construction waste, air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, excessive energy consumption, and inefficient use of water resources. As global attention shifts toward sustainable development, environmental culture has emerged as a fundamental component of responsible construction practices. Environmental culture encompasses the knowledge, attitudes, values, and behaviors that encourage environmentally responsible decision-making throughout the planning, construction, operation, and demolition phases of construction projects. This study examines the importance of environmental culture in the construction industry, identifies the major environmental challenges associated with construction activities, and analyzes strategies for promoting environmentally responsible behavior among construction professionals. The paper highlights the role of environmental education, sustainable construction technologies, waste management, resource conservation, and environmental management systems in improving ecological performance. The findings indicate that strengthening environmental culture contributes to reducing environmental impacts, improving occupational safety, enhancing resource efficiency, and supporting sustainable construction. The study concludes that developing environmental awareness among engineers, managers, and construction workers is essential for achieving environmentally sustainable construction practices.