Adoptability of bioplastic as a sustainable material in Sri Lankan building construction industry

Abstract

The Sri Lankan construction industry is facing significant challenges in building construction projects due to the negative impacts of using traditional building materials. Consequently, there has been a surge of interest in sustainable materials, and among them, bioplastics have emerged as a promising alternative. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential of bioplastics as a sustainable building material specifically for the Sri Lankan construction industry. To achieve this, the study applied a qualitative research approach to collect data through semi-structured interviews. The research objectives are to identify alternative sustainable materials used in construction and identify how bioplastics could contribute to the construction industry as ta sustainable material. In addition to that, the study also identifies the motivators and challenges to the use of polymer building materials in Sri Lanka and subsequently develop a framework including potential strategies to use bioplastic as a sustainable construction material. The study's findings have identified significant factors that establish bioplastics as a sustainable material suitable for the Sri Lankan construction sector. Moreover, the research offers valuable recommendations to address challenges related to the adoption of polymer building materials. Furthermore, the study would contribute to the formulation of policies and regulations that promote the use of bioplastics as a sustainable building material.