Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Over the past decade, the relationship between use of local building materials and energy efficiency of buildings has become a subject of considerable debate among scholars and industry practitioners alike, particularly within the context of Edo State where operating conditions differ markedly from more developed markets.

Within the context of Edo State, this relationship carries particular significance. Organizations in this setting operate under a distinct combination of economic, regulatory, and market conditions that may amplify or dampen the effect of use of local building materials on energy efficiency of buildings, making a context-specific inquiry both timely and necessary.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite a growing body of literature on use of local building materials, there remains limited consensus on the precise nature of its relationship with energy efficiency of buildings, particularly within Edo State. Many organizations continue to make decisions about use of local building materials without a clear, evidence-based understanding of how those decisions ultimately affect energy efficiency of buildings. This gap between practice and empirical understanding is the central problem this study seeks to address.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To examine the effect of Use of Local Building Materials on energy efficiency of buildings in Edo State.
2. To assess the extent to which use of local building materials influences energy efficiency of buildings within the study area.
3. To identify the challenges associated with use of local building materials in relation to energy efficiency of buildings.
4. To recommend strategies for optimizing use of local building materials in order to improve energy efficiency of buildings.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the effect of use of local building materials on energy efficiency of buildings in Edo State?
2. To what extent does use of local building materials influence energy efficiency of buildings within the study area?
3. What challenges are associated with use of local building materials in relation to energy efficiency of buildings?
4. What strategies can be adopted to optimize use of local building materials in order to improve energy efficiency of buildings?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant to a range of stakeholders. For policymakers and regulators, the findings offer evidence to guide the design of frameworks that support healthier outcomes around energy efficiency of buildings. For managers and practitioners within Edo State, the study provides practical insight into how use of local building materials can be better managed. Finally, it contributes to the academic literature on architecture by extending existing knowledge into a specific empirical context, and offers a reference point for future researchers.

1.6 Scope of the Study

In terms of scope, this study confines itself to Edo State, focusing specifically on how use of local building materials relates to energy efficiency of buildings within that setting. Findings are interpreted within these boundaries rather than as universal claims applicable to every organization or market.