Strategic Pathways to Sustainable Development: A Comprehensive Review of the Benefits and Barriers of Green Buildings

Abstract

As environmental concerns grow globally, green building practices have become essential in promoting sustainable development. This paper provides a comprehensive review aimed at evaluating the multifaceted benefits, barriers, and strategic pathways related to the implementation of green buildings. The study employs a systematic literature review, analysing 90 significant studies from databases such as Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, to assess the economic, environmental, and social impacts of green building practices. The results highlight that green buildings offer substantial benefits, including reduced energy consumption, improved indoor air quality, enhanced occupant health and productivity, and long-term cost savings. Despite these advantages, the widespread adoption of green building practices faces considerable challenges, notably high initial construction costs, regulatory obstacles, and limited awareness among stakeholders. Furthermore, the study identifies significant gaps in the existing literature concerning the regional and contextual variations in the effectiveness of green building strategies. The implications of this research are crucial for policymakers, developers, and industry professionals who are working towards sustainable urban development. The findings suggest that overcoming the identified barriers requires coordinated efforts, including the implementation of supportive policies, financial incentives, and extensive public education campaigns. By addressing these challenges, green buildings can play a pivotal role in achieving global sustainability goals and fostering resilient, eco-friendly urban environments.