The role of transportation and its involved sources of energy in the environmental assessment of marble producing sites

Abstract

Marble is acquiring large popularity as building material. Since building materials are now required to be characterized by high energy and environmental performances, marble is entailed to fulfill top-level requirements. About its environmental performances an important European Decision establishes criteria for the award of the Community eco-label to this material. Unfortunately, this Decision is focused on mining and processing activities, seemingly neglecting marble transport. In contrast, this phase affects the whole working chain because it releases (pollutant) emissions and involves the use of primary and, in case, secondary energy sources. Here, the focus is on the role played by transport in the environmental impact exerted by the marble production process. In addition, the sources of energy, needed to move the material through its working chain, are pointed out. On purpose, a field-enquiry referred to a typical Sicilian marble producing site is presented here.