Developing countries are particularly vulnerable to climate change, due to limited resources and the lack of well-defined practices for adapting to environmental damage. This study focuses on adopting circular economy (CE) principles and sustainable practices in the construction industry to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with particular attention to producing eco-friendly concrete. Specifically, it analyzes concrete mixes created with industrial byproducts and recycled aggregates, proposing more sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to ordinary concrete. Using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Cost Assessment (LCCA) techniques, six concrete mixes containing byproducts like ground granulated blast furnace slag, sawdust, and fly ash are compared for their environmental and economic impacts. Results indicate that using recycled materials and byproducts reduces global warming potential and overall costs. The analysis also shows that using recycled aggregates and construction demolition waste promotes a circular economy in the construction industry, reducing waste and improving resource efficiency, particularly in developing countries. This study provides a framework for energy transition and social sustainability, contributing to environmental justice while addressing the specific economic challenges of these contexts.
From waste to resource: Life cycle assessment of eco-friendly concrete in developing nations through energy transition
Petrillo A.
2025-01-01
Abstract
Developing countries are particularly vulnerable to climate change, due to limited resources and the lack of well-defined practices for adapting to environmental damage. This study focuses on adopting circular economy (CE) principles and sustainable practices in the construction industry to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with particular attention to producing eco-friendly concrete. Specifically, it analyzes concrete mixes created with industrial byproducts and recycled aggregates, proposing more sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to ordinary concrete. Using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Cost Assessment (LCCA) techniques, six concrete mixes containing byproducts like ground granulated blast furnace slag, sawdust, and fly ash are compared for their environmental and economic impacts. Results indicate that using recycled materials and byproducts reduces global warming potential and overall costs. The analysis also shows that using recycled aggregates and construction demolition waste promotes a circular economy in the construction industry, reducing waste and improving resource efficiency, particularly in developing countries. This study provides a framework for energy transition and social sustainability, contributing to environmental justice while addressing the specific economic challenges of these contexts.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
