Water, energy and emissions in concrete production: International trends and local opportunities
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52076/eacad-v6i3.671Keywords:
Sustainable concrete; Water footprint; Carbon footprint; Life cycle analysis; Panama.Abstract
Concrete is the most widely used construction material in Panama and its production generates significant environmental impacts related to water and energy consumption, CO2 emissions and the extraction of natural resources. The objective of this study is to analyze the state of the art on sustainable concrete production, integrating international evidence with the gaps and needs identified in Panama. The methodology consisted of a literature review that included scientific articles, reviews, case studies and technical reports related to CO2 emissions, energy consumption, water use and life cycle analysis. The results show significant advances in mitigation strategies, especially in clinker reduction, the use of supplementary cementitious materials, mix optimization and water management. Important information gaps were also identified in the Panamanian context. The study concludes by highlighting the need to develop standardized methodologies, improve the availability of data, and strengthen the technical capacities of the sector to move towards more sustainable concrete production in Panama.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Luis Sulbarán; Yamileth Lima; Yazmin L. Mack-Vergara
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