A Critical Literature Review of Generative AI’s Impact on Epistemology and Knowledge Validation in Architectural Design

Ogun, Nigeria egidario.aduwo@covenantuniversity.edu.ng; chibuikem.obiohapgs@stu.cu.edu.ng The increasing integration of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) into architectural design represents a shift in epistemology which has significantly altered how sustainable knowledge is being created and validated. This paper conducts a systematic critical literature review to analyse this transformation. It looks at the main research question: How is GenAI changing the basic ways that knowledge is created, critiqued and used in architectural design, and what does this mean for sustainable practice? By using a systematic critical review methodology, this paper analyses literature from databases using a structured search string. The selected papers are thematically analysed to identify the dominant narratives and pinpoint theoretical conflicts related to designerly intuition, ethics and human agency. It aligns with Agenda 2063 by interrogating how foundational changes in design epistemology can support the continent’s technological transformation and sustainable development goals. The expected contribution to knowledge is a foundational critique that explains the evolving discourse, distinguishes between speculative claims and evidenced shifts, and highlights crucial gaps. This aims to inform a more ethically aware and critically engaged integration of GenAI, one that safeguards necessary human judgement in the pursuit of sustainable built environments. Uptake of Recycled Materials for Construction Projects: Decision Factors in Emerging Economies Nontokozo Nkosi1*, Osamudiamen Otasowie1 Construction Management & Quantity Surveying, University of Johannesburg, South Africa nontokozonkosi020@gmail.com The uptake of recycled materials is essential for advancing circular economy (CE) practices in the construction industry. However, their adoption remains limited in emerging economies despite growing concerns about environmental and resource efficiency. This study investigates the decision factors influencing the uptake of recycled materials for construction projects in an emerging economy. A quantitative research design was adopted using a structured questionnaire surve