Analysis of the main environmental burdens by life cycle assessment of heavy construction equipment in the material extraction phase

Abstract

Construction activity is considered to be one of the main negative environmental burdens. This is largely due to the equipment used in this activity, particularly complex heavy machinery. Hence, the aim was to analyse the main environmental burdens occurring in the phase of extraction and processing of materials for complex heavy equipment used in construction. The main burdens determining the emission of carbon footprint (CO2), land occupation, and consumption of material resources were identified. Analyses were carried out using the OpenLCA program with the Ecoinvent 3.10 database. The results showed that the main burdens concern, for instance, the production of pig iron or sintered iron. Directing pro-environmental activities to reduce the identified burdens can contribute to a significant reduction of the negative impact of heavy construction equipment in their life cycle. This procedure is beneficial within the framework of activities for the sustainable development of construction.