By Rasheed Sobowale

In a world where the construction industry faces increasing pressure to balance rapid urbanization with environmental responsibility, Joshua Emeghai stands out as a researcher and practitioner who bridges engineering and data analytics in construction. With a strong foundation in structural engineering and construction management, his work spans from life-cycle assessment of construction impacts to innovative use of agricultural waste and polymer composites in building materials. With peer-reviewed publications, hands-on project engineering experience, and leadership roles in academia and professional associations, Emeghai is among the few engineers redefining how infrastructure can be resilient. In this interview, he shares insights into his journey, research, and vision for the future of construction.

Your academic journey spans structural engineering, construction management, and now environmental sciences. How has this multidisciplinary background shaped your approach to resilient construction?

My academic path has given me a holistic perspective. My Bachelor’s Degree in Structural Engineering trained me to understand materials and design, while construction management exposed me to lifecycle assessment (LCA) in the field of engineering. My Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences allows me to integrate environmental remediation technologies into construction practices. This combination ensures that I do not just look at construction from a technical standpoint but also from an environmental and societal impact perspective. For instance, when evaluating a new material, I do not only ask if it meets strength requirements; I also consider its carbon footprint, recyclability, and potential for reuse. This systems-thinking approach is what circular construction truly demands.

Your master’s project focuses on evaluating environmental impacts in the construction industry using LCA. Why is LCA critical for resilient construction today?

LCA is essential because it provides a comprehensive view of a material or process across its entire lifecycle from raw material extraction to disposal. In construction, decisions are often made based on upfront costs or immediate performance. LCA shifts the focus to long-term impacts, such as carbon emissions, energy consumption, and waste generation. For example, a material that seems cost-effective initially may have hidden environmental costs during disposal. LCA helps uncover these trade-offs, enabling policymakers and industry leaders to make informed decisions. It also aligns construction practices with global environmental targets by quantifying impacts in measurable terms.

You have published on concrete with agricultural waste as a partial substitute for granite. What potential do you see in agricultural by-products for resilient construction materials?

Agricultural by-products such as palm kernel shells and rice husks are abundant and often treated as waste. Incorporating them into construction materials reduces landfill pressure and lowers demand for non-renewable aggregates. My research demonstrated that these materials can maintain acceptable mechanical properties while reducing environmental footprints. Beyond performance, they also create economic opportunities for rural communities by turning waste into value-added products. For instance, farmers supplying palm kernel shells to construction firms can diversify their income streams. This approach not only supports resilient construction but also strengthens local economies, making it a win-win solution.

One of your recent publications explored polymer-based piezoelectric materials. How do you see advanced materials like these contributing to the future of resilient construction?

Advanced materials such as polymer-based piezoelectrics introduce functionality beyond traditional construction. Imagine buildings that generate energy from vibrations or foot traffic, transforming infrastructure into an active contributor to the economy. These materials also open the door to innovative construction, where structures can self-monitor stress and environmental conditions. For example, a bridge embedded with piezoelectric sensors could simultaneously detect stress levels and generate energy. While still emerging, their integration could drastically reduce reliance on external energy sources and improve resilience in urban environments. The future of circular construction lies in combining traditional durability with smart, multifunctional materials.

You have worked as both a project engineer and a data analyst. How do you merge technical construction expertise with data-driven insights in resilient projects?

My engineering background ensures I understand the technical realities of construction sites, while my analytics experience equips me to process large datasets and identify trends. For example, at CARTS, I use predictive analytics to assess transportation safety, which parallels how we can predict environmental impacts in construction. By merging these skills, I can quantify, visualize and recommend evidence-based interventions. A practical case is using data dashboards to show how switching to recycled aggregates reduces emissions over time. This dual expertise makes resilient construction not just aspirational but measurable and practical.

What role does artificial intelligence play in optimizing pavement materials, as highlighted in your publication on AI-free optimization?

Interestingly, our study focused on AI-free optimization to show that resilience can be achieved even without advanced algorithms. However, AI remains a powerful tool for modeling complex variables in pavement design, such as cost, durability, and environmental impact. By simulating different scenarios, AI can help engineers select materials that balance performance with resilience. For example, AI can predict how a pavement mix will perform under varying traffic loads and weather conditions, reducing trial-and-error costs. The key is ensuring that technology complements engineering judgment rather than replacing it, making resilient both efficient and reliable.

You are involved in teaching and mentoring students. How do you integrate the concepts of Resilience into your teaching?

Teaching is an opportunity to instill resilience in the mind, not just a technical requirement. When I taught physics and mathematics, I emphasized problem-solving approaches that considered efficiency and resource use. In construction-related contexts, I highlight case studies where resilience practices led to long-term benefits, such as reduced maintenance costs or improved community health. Mentoring students also means encouraging them to think critically about the social and environmental consequences of engineering decisions. For example, I often ask students to redesign a project with resilient constraints, which fosters creativity and responsibility.

You judged science fairs and reviewed journals. How do these roles influence your perspective on resilience construction research?

Serving as a judge and reviewer keeps me connected to emerging ideas and innovations. At science fairs, I see young minds approach resilience creatively, often with impactful yet straightforward solutions, such as low-cost water filtration systems or biodegradable building blocks. Reviewing journal articles exposes me to global research trends, from waste utilization to smart materials. These roles sharpen my critical thinking and broaden my perspective, ensuring that my own research remains relevant and globally competitive. They also remind me that resilience is not just about high-tech solutions; sometimes, grassroots innovations can be equally transformative.

What challenges do you see in mainstreaming resilient construction practices in Nigeria and globally?

The biggest challenge is cost perception. Many stakeholders believe resilient materials or practices are more expensive, even when lifecycle analysis shows long-term savings. Another challenge is policy enforcement; without strong regulations, resilient construction remains optional. Globally, supply chain limitations also hinder adoption, especially in developing countries where access to advanced materials is limited. For Nigeria, awareness and training are critical. Many engineers and contractors are not yet familiar with resilient practices. Addressing these challenges requires awareness campaigns, supportive policies, and incentives that make resilience attractive and accessible.

Looking ahead, what is your vision for resilient construction in the next decade?

My vision is for construction to evolve into a fully circular industry, where waste becomes raw material, buildings generate their own energy, and digital tools optimize every stage of the lifecycle. I see resilient construction becoming the default, not the exception, driven by both necessity and innovation. Personally, I aim to contribute by advancing research that bridges environmental sciences with construction practices, ensuring that infrastructure development aligns with global environmental targets. In the next decade, I believe we will see a shift in which resilience is no longer a niche but a baseline expectation for every project.