Sustainable Construction in Rural Areas: The Advantages of Integrated Building Systems for Affordable Housing

Abstract

The Industrialised Building System (IBS) offers a transformative approach to sustainable construction in rural areas. However, traditional construction methods have an inefficiency and environmental impact, which are particularly challenging in rural settings. Therefore, this research aims to identify the potential benefits of IBS in rural areas. This study employed a qualitative survey design to gather detailed information on implementing IBS. The research used purposive sampling to select 40 respondents from government organizations, consulting companies, and contractors (class G6 and above) involved in IBS projects in Kelantan. Data were collected using a structured interview protocol and analyzed using thematic analysis with ATLAST—ti software. The results indicate that IBS significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, improves material efficiency, shortens construction time, and lowers project costs. The empirical evidence demonstrates that IBS construction methods lead to lower greenhouse gas emissions, higher quality and uniformity in construction components, and reduced on-site waste through controlled manufacturing processes. These advantages are crucial for sustainable construction in rural areas, where challenges such as limited access to skilled labor and materials often exist. Implementing IBS can thus provide more affordable, efficient, and environmentally friendly housing solutions in rural communities. IBS addresses the inefficiencies of traditional construction and promotes sustainable practices, particularly in rural areas where these benefits are critically needed. The research contributes valuable insights to construction practitioners, policymakers, and industry stakeholders, encouraging the adoption of IBS to enhance resource efficiency and environmental sustainability. This study also adds to the body of knowledge on sustainable construction by empirically validating the benefits of IBS, providing a robust framework for future research and practical applications in the construction industry.