Assessing Sustainable Building Practices for Carbon Reduction in Residential Housing: A Nigerian Perspective

Abstract

Sustainable building materials play a crucial role in reducing the carbon footprint of the housing sector, which is significant in Nigeria due to rapid urbanisation and increasing housing demands. This study provides a comprehensive narrative review of 60 published journal articles from 2010 to 2023, focusing on identifying, evaluating, and applying sustainable building materials for low-carbon housing in Nigeria. The review method critically analyses existing literature to highlight the most effective materials and techniques contributing to carbon reduction. Findings reveal that materials such as bamboo, recycled concrete, and earth-based materials show promise in achieving sustainability goals. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of integrating traditional construction practices with modern technologies to enhance environmental performance. The barriers to adopting these materials, including economic constraints, lack of awareness, and policy challenges, are also discussed. The insights derived from this review aim to guide policymakers, architects, and builders in promoting sustainable construction practices.