Attaining sustainability by navigating challenges in the transition to sustainable buildings using Fermatean fuzzy AHP.

Sustainable buildings (SBs) have emerged as a potential solution to address the issue related to greenhouse gas emissions and provide quality living conditions for the occupants. However, their effective implementation is hindered by several barriers, especially in the developing economies. This study aims to analyze the barriers hindering the adoption of the SB concept in the construction sector. Based on literature analysis and consultation with an expert panel, 35 barriers were identified that were further categorized under 7 main barriers. These barriers were then ranked using the Fermatean fuzzy-analytic hierarchy process (FF-AHP) approach to identify the most influential barrier. The most significant barriers identified by the study include: "High cost of implementing sustainable building technologies", "Lack of collaboration between designers, consultants and contractors", "Fear of delaying the project resulting in additional cost" and "Missing stringent environmental laws, standard codes and regulations by governmental institutions". This highlights the necessity to optimize costs through efficient building design and focus on research and development. A comprehensive understanding of the hurdles faced in the pathway of implementation of SBs concept will help practitioners discuss appropriate strategies. The study's implications will act as guidance for the practitioners and policymakers in the effective adoption of SBs in developing economies.