Interlocking Stabilised Soil Blocks (ISSBs) And the Perception Economy: How Stakeholder Sentiments May Outweigh Technical Merits in Adoption Decisions

  • Ibitoye O. A. Department of Architecture, College of Environmental Science and Management, Caleb University, Imota, Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
  • Babamboni A. S Department of Architecture, College of Environmental Science and Management, Caleb University, Imota, Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
  • Olaoye G. O. Department of Architecture, College of Environmental Science and Management, Caleb University, Imota, Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
  • Oriowo O. Department of Architecture, College of Environmental Science and Management, Caleb University, Imota, Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
  • Daramola O. F. Department of Architecture, College of Environmental Science and Management, Caleb University, Imota, Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
  • Tolu-Alalade J. O. Department of Architecture, College of Environmental Science and Management, Caleb University, Imota, Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
DOI: https://doi.org/10.34118/jbms.v13i1.4837
Keywords: Interlocking Stabilised Soil Blocks (ISSBs), Stakeholder Perception, Sustainable Construction, Adoption Barriers, Building Materials in Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates how stakeholder perceptions influence the adoption of Interlocking Stabilised Soil Blocks (ISSBs) for residential construction in Southwest Nigeria, despite the material’s established technical merits. Using a quantitative descriptive research design, data were collected through structured questionnaires distributed to 124 stakeholders, including homeowners, developers, and construction professionals. Descriptive and inferential analyses were employed to assess levels of awareness, perceptions of technical performance, and the barriers to ISSB adoption. Findings reveal that although awareness of ISSBs is moderate, technical understanding remains shallow, limiting confidence in adoption. Stakeholders generally recognise ISSBs’ benefits in strength, thermal insulation, and fire resistance; however, concerns persist regarding moisture resistance and long-term durability. Regression analysis showed a weak but significant relationship between knowledge and adoption prospects, confirming that perceptions and social norms exert more influence than technical evidence. Key barriers identified include limited social proof, entrenched preferences for conventional materials, and a lack of institutional support. The study concludes that targeted policy incentives, education, and communication strategies are necessary to bridge the gap between perception and technical evidence. These findings contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable construction materials and offer practical recommendations for stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers aiming to enhance ISSB adoption.

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Published
2026-06-30
How to Cite
Ibitoye O. A., Babamboni A. S, Olaoye G. O., Oriowo O., Daramola O. F., & Tolu-Alalade J. O. (2026). Interlocking Stabilised Soil Blocks (ISSBs) And the Perception Economy: How Stakeholder Sentiments May Outweigh Technical Merits in Adoption Decisions. Journal of Building Materials and Structures, 13(1), 42-52. https://doi.org/10.34118/jbms.v13i1.4837
Issue
Vol 13 No 1 (2026)
Section
Original Articles

Copyright (c) 2026 Ibitoye O. A. , Babamboni A. S, Olaoye G. O., Oriowo O., Daramola O. F., Tolu-Alalade J. O.

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