Innovation in Industrial Building Sustainability : Exploring timber frames as a viable alternative to steel frames in industrial buildings A case study of Sweco AB

Abstract: Lund University (2020) describes that the material chosen for the construction of constructions significantly affects the environment. Due to the impact of the choice of construction materials on the environment, we have carried out an in-depth study where we examine the complex decision-making process when choosing frame materials concerning both external and internal factors where external influences become regulatory requirements related to global sustainability goals with the aim that the industrial construction industry can find sustainable solutions such as hybrid solutions in the choice of frame materials, while internal factors involve financial considerations linked to the protection of materials against environmental conditions and challenges that industrial buildings can face. To gain a greater perspective on these external and internal factors, we interviewed engineers within Sweco AB and their suppliers such as Sca AB, who showed them more clearly that sustainable materials, such as wood, offer environmental benefits. However, there are challenges that industrial construction industries encounter, such as costs, customer preferences, and knowledge that is related to the industrial construction industry's experience in building with wood as a frame trial. We underline the industrial construction industry's commitment to sustainable innovations guided by Rogers' innovation diffusion theory (Rogers, 2003) and Geels' multi-level perspective (Geels, 2002). These sustainable innovations are driven by external influences, while internal factors such as cost considerations and the pursuit of hybrid solutions reveal challenges. The research highlights the industry's active participation in shaping a responsible and forward-looking future. Within this study, we emphasize through our research, the need to consider customer preferences, increase awareness, and implement rules such as climate declaration and EU taxonomy for a sustainable construction shift in Sweden. These emphases are ongoing as we study the impact of innovation diffusion as well as barriers to innovation and government regulations on the adoption of innovations and technologies in industrial construction (European Commission, 2023; Sadri et al., 2021; Lundberg et al., 2019). Our study highlights the complexities of individual choices, industry dynamics, and societal impact, offering valuable insights for decision-makers in the construction industry. Although a complete shift to wood may not be feasible, in line with Christensen's innovation model (Christensen, 2000), innovations such as green steel can benefit both industrial construction companies, related suppliers, and customers. Focusing on timber frames as an alternative to steel, our study recommends future research on life cycle analyses, cost-benefit assessments, stakeholder engagement, regional studies, decision analysis, post-occupancy evaluations, circular economy integration, and predictive modeling. These proposals aim to improve the sustainability of construction by providing a comprehensive view of material selection, aligning economic feasibility with ecological responsibility, and supporting informed decision-making.