An integrated framework for the implementation of sustainable road infrastructure projects in developing countries

Abstract: With recent unprecedented environmental deterioration becoming more adverse worldwide, discussions by the international community for establishing an appropriate response policy against this menace has become more urgent. This has led the world to focus on a new sustainable development agenda tagged Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A significant section of the SDGs focuses on sustainable infrastructure development. Therefore, the road infrastructure sector cannot be left out of the sustainability agenda since it forms a significant part of infrastructure development. Though there are a few sustainability interventions in road infrastructure development, they are limited and unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to develop an integrated framework to guide the implementation of sustainable road infrastructure projects in developing countries. The study will adopt a mixed method approach. Face-to-face interviews on selected representatives of key stakeholders will be carried out to select and classify, confirm and prioritize a list of sustainability performance targets that will be identified through literature and past research. A Delphi technique through questionnaire survey will be used to explore the extent to which the sustainability criteria and indicators impact or influence on Sustainable road infrastructure project implementation in developing countries. Through the identification and integration of different perceptions and priority needs of the stakeholders, as well as key sustainability indicators and solutions for critical issues, a set of decision-making guidelines will be developed to promote and drive consistent sustainability deliverables in road infrastructure projects. The study is expected to provide an innovative and practical framework which will aid road infrastructure development stakeholders in the implementation of Sustainable Road Infrastructure projects