Development of a framework for the process of decision-making and the analysis of incentive schemes within the context of sustainable building

This research proposes a framework describing the decision-making process preceding proenvironmental action and applies the framework to building refurbishment incentive schemes. By documenting the influences on this process, the framework supports greater understanding of proenvironmental behaviour and the development of more effective incentive schemes. Focussing on nonhabitual occupant behaviour within the owner-occupied housing sector, the framework brings together a wide range of secondary research concerning human decision-making behaviour. Testing is undertaken by using the framework to generate criteria describing a successful incentive scheme to encourage low carbon refurbishment of houses in the UK. These criteria are then assessed to determine their relevance and consequently the relevance of the framework used to generate them.

The paper concludes that the framework and criteria could not only assist the development and evaluation of individual incentive schemes but could help facilitate a nationwide strategy of schemes in relation to sustainability issues.