BJAR British Journal of Advanced Research BJAR 3153-709X Ivory and Finch Publishers 10.68263/BJAR-HJMN2A42 BJAR_JUL_26_011 Original Research Article Architecture, Religion, and Environmental Sustainability: A Mixed-Methods Assessment of Faith-Based Institutions in Nigeria Tony Aku Amba https://orcid.org/0000-0002-81048756 Neo-Tropical Urban Rural Environmental Resilience and Sustainable Development Initiative Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. revtonyakuamba@gmail.com Joseph Ashi Kazeh 2Department of Architecture, Plateau State University Bokkos, Plateau State .D. Chong Joseph 3Department of Architecture, University of Jos, Plateau State 10 08 2026 1 2

Faith-based institutions (FBIs) have historically influenced social transformation through education, healthcare, humanitarian services, and moral leadership. In recent decades, these institutions have increasingly been recognized as important stakeholders in promoting environmental sustainability through sustainable architecture, ecological stewardship, renewable energy adoption, waste management, and environmental education. Despite these contributions, empirical evidence on how architectural design within religious institutions supports environmental sustainability in Nigeria remains limited. This study assessed the relationship between architecture, religion, and environmental sustainability using a convergent mixed-methods research design. Quantitative data were obtained from 400 respondents selected from Christian and Muslim faith-based institutions across Nigeria through structured questionnaires, while qualitative data were collected through 25 key informant interviews and six focus group discussions with religious leaders, architects, environmental professionals, and facility managers. Descriptive statistics, chi-square analysis, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression were employed for quantitative analysis, while thematic analysis was used for qualitative data. The findings indicate that sustainable architectural features such as natural ventilation, daylight optimization, rainwater harvesting, solar photovoltaic systems, green landscaping, and waste segregation significantly improve environmental performance within faith-based institutions. Respondents also reported that religious teachings on stewardship of creation positively influence environmental behaviours. Regression analysis revealed that sustainable architectural practices, environmental awareness, institutional policies, and leadership commitment jointly explained a substantial proportion of the variation in environmental sustainability outcomes. Qualitative findings further demonstrated that eco-spiritual values motivate environmental conservation initiatives, although financial constraints, inadequate technical expertise, and weak policy implementation remain significant barriers. The study concludes that integrating sustainable architecture with religious values provides a practical framework for advancing environmental sustainability in Nigeria. It recommends stronger collaboration among government agencies, architects, environmental professionals, and faith-based organizations to mainstream green building practices and environmental education.

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