The Role of Quantity Surveyors in Providing Guidance to Sustainable Construction Practices in South Africa

Dear Sir/Madam.

My name is Zodwa Brenda Nsibanyoni. I am a master’s student in Quantity Surveying at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. My supervisors are Prof. David Root and Dr. Lungie Maseko. I am conducting a research study to explore how Quantity Surveyors can contribute to promoting sustainable construction practices in South Africa. This includes examining water and energy efficiency in construction, identifying barriers, and exploring opportunities for improvement.

The title of the study is: “The Role of Quantity Surveyors in Providing Guidance to Sustainable Construction Practices in South Africa.”

You are invited to take part in an online survey for this research study. The survey will take approximately 15 minutes and includes questions about your knowledge, experience, and perspectives on sustainable construction practices.

Participation in this survey is voluntary, confidential, and anonymous. When sharing the results of the study, your name or any other identifying information will not be included. Some of your responses may be used as direct quotes to illustrate the findings in the research report; however, your identity will remain completely anonymous, and any identifying details will be removed.

You are free to choose whether or not to participate and may withdraw at any time without any penalty. You are also not required to answer any questions you are uncomfortable with. There are no incentives for participating, and you will not lose any benefits, services, or rights if you decide not to take part.

The risks associated with participating in this study are minimal and no greater than those encountered in daily life.

This research will be written up as a report, which will be available in the university library website. If you would like to receive a summary of the report, I will be happy to send it to you.

By completing and submitting the online survey, you are giving your informed consent to participate in this study.

If you have any questions during or after the study, please feel free to contact me or my supervisors using the contact details below. If you have any concerns or complaints about the ethical procedures of this research study, you are welcome to contact the University Human Research Ethics Committee (Non-Medical), telephone +27(0) 11 717 1408, email hrecnon-medical@wits.ac.za.

Yours sincerely,

Researcher:

Zodwa Brenda Nsibanyoni, 509505@students.wits.ac.za

Supervisors:

Prof. David Root, David.Root@wits.ac.za

Dr. Lungie Maseko, lungie.maseko@wits.ac.za