Influence of green procurement on construction of government structures in Kirinyaga central sub County, Kirinyaga County, Kenya

Abstract

Green procurement involves the integration of environmental issues into purchasing decisions based on price, performance and quality. This means that products or services that consume fewer natural resources should be given preference over competing products or services‟ exerting a greater environmental impact. The main objective of this study was to investigate the influence of green procurement on construction of the government structures in Kirinyaga County, Kenya. The specific objectives of study were to establish the influence of cost of green materials, legal and regulatory framework, quality of green construction materials and tender processes in green procurement on construction of the government structures in Kirinyaga County, Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The study targeted 23 heads of government departments and 27 members of various departmental tender committees. The study used census sampling to collect data from all 23 heads of government departments and 27 members of various departmental tender committees. Reliability analysis was done through piloting the instrument in government departments in the neighbouring Nyeri County. Reliability coefficient was used to test reliability. Validity was ensured through discussion with the experts including supervisors and colleagues. Primary data was collected and analyzed using quantitative and qualitative techniques and then presented using narratives, tables and graphs. Secondary data was also obtained from journals and the government department‟s data bases. Data collected was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics such as Pearson‟s correlation were used. This assisted in determining the level of influence the independent variables have on the dependent variable. The findings indicated that price rate of green construction were affordable as 75% of respondents confirmed it. Research findings on compliance to legal and regulatory framework, show that 95% of respondents found green construction to be less pollutant. Durability of the green constructed structures, show that 90% of the respondents confirmed that the structures were durable as either no or fewer repairs were made. Research findings on tender processes in green procurement was found to be time bound as government structures as 100% of respondent confirmed that the process was completed within the stipulated timeframe. At the end of the study, the study provides variable insight to firms on how effective the green procurement can be, in sustainable construction of building structures. Policy makers and the government may be able to understand the challenges faced in adoption of green procurement and therefore may be able to formulate policies that may improve the procurement process. The study will also form a basis for further research by scholars interested on research of the relationship between adoption of green procurement practices and environmental conservation.