Sustainability assessment of construction practices in India using inductive content analysis of research literature

A triple-bottom-line (TBL) centric review and assessment of construction practices in India has been conducted using qualitative, inductive content analysis of 68 research papers. The analysis resulted in creation of 13 categories, with 6 categories under social, 4 categories under environmental and 3 categories under economic dimensions. The categories, interpreted in light of an existing sustainable construction framework, revealed wide divergence between the current construction practices in India and those required for sustainable construction under all three dimensions. Using a Concept Map, the complex inter-relationships between various categories are demonstrated and measures required to ensure compliance with sustainable construction principles are highlighted. The concept map also provides multiple propositions that hold significant promise for future research on sustainable construction in India. This study contributes to better understanding of the broader sustainable construction scenario in India and can be used by industry practitioners, researchers as well as policymakers.