Sustainable built environments and construction activity through dynamic research agendas

Sexton, MG

Abstract

There is a growing consensus that appropriate strategies and actions are needed to
develop sustainable built environments and construction activity. This thesis
contextualises this consensus within the broader sustainable development literature.
First, the review of the literature culminates in the development of the Holographic
Dynamic PSR (pressure, state, response) model as a holistic, system-orientated
framework to better understand the focus of, and interaction between, stakeholders'
worldviews and actions to progress sustainable development. Second, five systemically
linked hypotheses are articulated to test the argument that the current body of research
knowledge is not sufficiently focused and integrated to support progressive, significant
and balanced sustainable development.
The hypotheses are tested using built environment and construction activity specific
literature, through a 'nested' research methodology comprising an interpretative
philosophy, a soft systems research approach and literature review and synthesis
research techniques.
The thesis substantially supports the overall argument mapped out by the hypotheses,
and proposes both a generic dynamic research agenda framework to progress sustainable
development in general; and a UK prioritised research agenda for sustainable built
environments and construction activity.

Citation

Sexton, M. Sustainable built environments and construction activity through dynamic research agendas. (Thesis). University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Aug 17, 2011
• Publicly Available Date: Aug 17, 2011
• Award Date: Jan 1, 2000