Mapping Construction 4.0 and Sustainability for Innovation in the Construction Industry of Developing Countries

A country's inclusive and sustainable growth depends largely on efficient infrastructure, making it a crucial aspect of governmental, urban, and social decisions, particularly in developing countries. However, these regions face significant barriers to progress, such as low digitalization rates, limited adoption of technology, and socio-economic obstacles that hinder sustainable development. Addressing these challenges is vital to fulfilling the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and requires strategic partnerships, innovative practices, and integration within the construction sector. Furthermore, Industry 4.0 represents a promising pathway toward sustainable, technologically advanced construction; however, its adoption in developing countries remains in the early stages and faces considerable barriers. While each concept has been independently researched, their combined effect in this context remains understudied. Using bibliometric analysis, this study aims to explore the intersection of construction 4.0, sustainability, and innovation within the construction industry of developing countries to map their scientific development, providing an overview of the existing literature and identifying key areas of focus. The findings reveal crucial thematic areas, such as the prominent role of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in sustainability, material innovation focused on concrete properties, and the growing importance of prefabricated construction and social network analysis. Additionally, the study identifies critical research gaps including a lack of empirical validation of socio-economic impacts and the need for qualitative studies that delve into the policy, ethical, and social dimensions of Construction 4.0. The study provides a foundation for future research by highlighting the need for holistic approaches that integrate technological advancements with environmental and social considerations.