GREENING THE TROPICS: AN IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS OF SUSTAINABLE BUILDING RATINGS IN SOUTH-WEST NIGERIA

As global concerns regarding environmental sustainability intensify, this study focuses on the specific context of South-West Nigeria to investigate the implementation and impact of sustainable building practices. The tropics pose unique challenges and opportunities for sustainable development, and understanding how these principles are applied in this region is crucial for fostering eco-friendly urban environments. The research employs an in-depth analysis of sustainable building ratings, evaluating existing structures and practices in South-West Nigeria. A comprehensive examination of established green building standards, such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM), is conducted to assess their applicability and effectiveness in the tropical climate. The paper attempts to determine the factors driving the widespread implementation of sustainable construction practices within the area using a combination of qualitative case studies and quantitative data analysis. It investigates how regional regulations, financial concerns, and cultural elements influence the development of green construction projects. Additionally, the research investigates the perceived benefits and challenges associated with sustainable construction within the tropical region. The study’s conclusions add to the continuing conversation on sustainable development in tropical areas and offer insightful information to parties who shape the built environment, including legislators, architects, and designers. By understanding the nuances of sustainable building practices in South-West Nigeria, the research aims to inform strategies for promoting environmentally conscious construction practices and fostering a more sustainable future in tropical climates.

Keywords: Sustainability, Green Building, Ecosystem, Renewable Energy, Nigeria

Declarations:

Availability of data and material – Data and material were sourced ethically

Competing interests – No Competing Interests for this paper

Funding – No funding was received for this paper

Authors’ contributions – Author 1 Initiated the Paper and contributed significantly, Authors 2 and 3 contributed equally to editorial review and data collection

Acknowledgments – Authors are grateful to the editorial team for ensuring the publication