Advancing Bio-Based Construction Materials for Sustainable Cities, Industry, and Climate Action: An Evaluation of Synergies with UN SDGs 9, 11, 12, and 13

Manufacturing conventional construction materials, such as concrete, cement, steel, iron, and aluminium, relies heavily on non renewable minerals. Hence, sustainable building techniques are crucial for mitigating environmental impacts and aligning construction practices with global sustainability goals. This research evaluates how bio-based construction materials contribute to SDGs 9, 11, 12, and 13. A quantitative approach, utilising a descriptive survey, collected data from 122 built environment professionals, yielding a 78% response rate. Univariate statistical analysis showed respondents strongly agreed that bio-based materials promote SDG 9 through decarbonisation and climate resilience (mean (m) = 4.43), sustainable manufacturing and circular economy (m = 4.42), and enhanced structural performance (m = 4.35). Regarding SDG 11, they agreed that these materials improve human health and well-being (m = 4.31), reduce construction waste (m = 4.25), and lower the carbon footprint of buildings (m = 4.18). The survey analysis indicated that bio-based materials support SDG 12 through recyclability (m = 4.28), use of renewable resources (m = 4.22), and lower toxicity (m = 4.18). In line with SDG 13, they reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower their carbon footprint (m = 4.32), promote carbon sequestration (m = 4.17), and decrease their dependency on fossil fuels (m = 4.17). Using bio-based construction materials significantly advances the achievement of global SDGs, necessitating government policies to promote their use, academia to innovate applications, and professional bodies to develop educational programs.