Challenges in Implementing Sustainable Construction in Humla District, Nepal

Abstract

Sustainable construction practices have become essential to supporting environmentally friendly development, particularly in ecologically sensitive locations like the high-altitude mountains of Nepal. This study explores the challenges in implementing sustainable construction methods in Humla District. The study uses a qualitative methodology that includes questionnaire surveys and KII to identify important elements that affect in implementing in sustainable construction. Using an Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), this study determines the main obstacles to implementing sustainable construction practices in Humla. The Factor analysis identified the ten major components that influence in implementing the sustainable construction in high altitude region. The key component factors are infrastructure and transportation limitations, workforce and skill gaps, energy and disaster resilience, climate and material resilience, local and planning issues, lack of technology and skilled work force, social and governance barriers, etc. The survey discovered that respondents strongly agreed that implementing sustainable construction methods is feasible, so long as there is better material management approaches, more worker training, legislative changes, and improved infrastructure. In order to overcome these challenges and advance sustainable development in high-altitude areas like Humla, this research highlights the critical need for specialized policy solutions, capacity-building efforts, and advanced construction technology. The goal of this research is to promote sustainable development goals in high-altitude regions by adding to the increasing body of knowledge on sustainable construction in the challenging environments.