Methodology for the Life Cycle Assessment of Clay Masonry from Energy and Water Consumption

Considering the clay masonry production, energy and water’s resources consumption has a high relevance, mainly at raw extraction materials, and transformation phases, highlighting the environmental impacts ensued by these types of activities. Life Cycle Assessment Methodology (SIMAPro v8) applied to evaluate the environmental impact, and water and energy consumption, at “cradle to gate” for a Non- structural masonry unit (1) Clay hollow brick No. 5, revealed a highest energy consumption (55%) at Benefit & Transformation phase, followed by drying & baking consuming 45% from total energy required. Green water (known as collected rainwater) is highlighted as low as resource consumption, requiring a total of 0,3696 kg H2O (rainwater)/unit. Raw material´s extraction activities result as an impact evaluation greatest generator; Mixing, Crushing and Molding are the second energy demanding and impacting activities. Baking activity is the third activity that can cause impact, mainly due by Eutrophication, Acidification, Photochemical oxidation, Global Warming Potential and Human toxicity. Considering the Colombia´s commitments to achieve a 20% reduction of emissions by 2030, results are demonstrating even higher environmental impact related to the change in land usage, in order to extract construction materials. This alarming situation requires an urgent environmental intervention, and tougher rules for construction companies, which help to prevent and mitigate the environment degradation.