Revisiting triple bottom line within the context of sustainable construction: A systematic review

Abstract

© 2019 Elsevier

The concepts of Triple Bottom Line (TBL) and sustainable construction were first introduced in the mid and late-90s respectively. However, there is limited research that addresses the integration of TBL principles within the social, environmental and economic dimensions of sustainable construction. This paper intends to (a) revisit and review the concept of TBL within the context of sustainable construction, thereby establishing the current research position, and (b) develop an integrated framework for TBL to help support improved sustainability practices within the sector. A systematic review of outputs published between 1980 and 2018 was carried out by examining three major research databases. Subsequent to filtering, eighty-six journal papers were selected for this review. Results show a growing research interest in, and awareness of, TBL. The challenges and drivers for both TBL and sustainable construction have been analysed and discussed based on current developments. The proposed framework integrates the principles of TBL, and enables new theoretical and practical solutions to help improve the integration of sustainability within the construction industry.