Carbon footprint of coarse aggregate in Brazilian construction

This research measures the carbon dioxide equivalent emissions (CO2−e) of the extraction, transport and crushing process of coarse aggregate in Brazil. The goal is to quantify the carbon footprint and identify the critical stages of those activities. The quantification of CO2−e was determined by the emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrous oxide (N2O), methane (CH4) and non-methane volatile organic compound (NMVOC). The results show that the crushing process is the critical stage because of its high electric power consumption. These factors should be addressed in future Brazilian environmental studies in order to find alternative solutions prior to exploring new quarries.