Influence of User Awareness on Green Building Adoption in Project Management: The Case of Institution of Engineers Rwanda

Mwiseneza Aline & Martin Kimemia Gathiru
School of Business and Economics
Mount Kigali University, Kigali, Rwanda
Email: mwisaline@gmail.com

Abstract: This study examined the influence of user awareness on green building adoption in project management within the Institution of Engineers Rwanda (IER). Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 210 IER professionals through structured questionnaires, semi structured interviews, document reviews, and observations. Quantitative analysis utilized descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Results revealed a statistically significant positive relationship between user awareness and green building adoption (R² = 0.523, β = 0.723, p < 0.001), with awareness explaining 52.3% of adoption variance. While 76.2% of respondents recognized green building benefits, only 67.6% demonstrated comprehensive understanding of principles, revealing a critical awareness-implementation gap. Barriers included limited exposure to green building concepts (16.2% reported unawareness), hierarchical decision-making favouring traditional methods, and supply chain constraints. The study advocates for perception-centric strategies including localized awareness campaigns, experiential learning modules, and culturally resonant certification frameworks aligned with Rwanda’s Vision 2050 sustainability targets. Findings position IER as both a technical guide and behavioural catalyst in bridging policy-practice divides through targeted capacity-building interventions.