Assessing the Knowledge and Awareness Level of Built Environment Professionals in Nigeria

Abstract

Nigeria is a developing country with active construction activities. The built environment and buildings in particular are major contributors of carbon emissions leading to climate change. Furthermore, there is limited data in the Sub-Saharan region on the subject of climate change and buildings. Also, Nigeria’s carbon emission data from buildings remains unknown. This study focuses on the awareness and knowledge of design professionals on the subject of climate change and buildings, in order to promote the sustainability of the built environment. A questionnaire survey and face-to-face interviews were carried out between May and September, 2013 provided the data for this study. A total of 283 participants were involved across the three identified climatic regions in Nigeria. Findings suggest that (1) there is low level of knowledge on the relationship between climate change and buildings. (2) Knowledge and information amongst the built environment professionals in Nigeria on climate and buildings have statistical significance relationship. (3) Participants are interested in knowing more on the subject of climate and buildings. This study suggests and recommends that, assessing the knowledge, information and interest of stakeholders is a key factor for promoting sustainable practices and its applications by these practitioners.