Barriers to sustainable construction in developing countries: A literature review (2015–2025)

Sustainable construction is increasingly recognised as essential for reducing environmental impacts; however, its implementation in developing countries remains constrained by multiple structural challenges. This study presents a systematic literature review of research published between 2015 and June 2025, to identify and synthesise the main barriers affecting sustainable construction adoption in developing contexts. Following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, 51 studies indexed in Scopus and Web of Science were analysed using a thematic coding approach. The findings identify 11 recurrent barriers grouped into five interrelated categories: economic-financial, knowledge and awareness, regulatory-political, industry-related and cultural-social. Economic and financial barriers, particularly high initial costs, limited incentives and restricted access to financing, emerge as dominant factors influencing other barriers. The review integrates dispersed evidence through a multi-level perspective, highlighting interactions among institutional, industry and socio-cultural conditions. Significant research gaps include limited longitudinal evidence and underrepresentation of Latin America, the Caribbean and low-human-development regions. Comparative and longitudinal studies are recommended to support context-adapted policy and managerial strategies.