In the heart of Egypt, where the construction sector contributes a staggering 23% of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions, a groundbreaking study is paving the way for a more sustainable future. Led by Norhane Eldeeb from the Smart Engineering Systems Research Centre (SESC) at Nile University, this research is not just about numbers and data; it’s about making informed decisions that can significantly reduce the environmental impact of construction materials.
Eldeeb and her team have integrated life cycle assessment (LCA) data from the Ecoinvent Database with environmental product declarations (EPDs) to evaluate the environmental impacts of widely used building materials. This dual-source method has facilitated cross-verification and addressed specific gaps in the local market, improving the reliability of the life cycle inventory.
The results are striking. Hollow bricks, for instance, exhibit the lowest carbon footprint at 0.15 kg CO2eq/kg, while expanded polystyrene (EPS) demonstrates the highest climate impact at 4.2 kg CO2eq/kg. “EPDs emerge as pivotal tools for transparent, region-specific data, guiding stakeholders toward low-carbon alternatives like stone wool and gypsum fiberboard,” Eldeeb explains. These alternatives can reduce ozone depletion potential by 40% compared to conventional counterparts.
The study, published in *Discover Civil Engineering* (translated to English as “Exploring Civil Engineering”), aligns its findings with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). It demonstrates the potential to mitigate Egypt’s construction-sector emissions by 30–50% through strategic material substitution.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. By advocating for policy reforms, including mandatory EPD integration in public procurement and revisions to national building codes, this research could accelerate sustainable construction practices. “This framework offers a replicable model for emerging economies to reconcile industrial development with global climate imperatives, fostering synergies between economic growth and planetary health,” Eldeeb notes.
As the world grapples with climate change, this research provides a beacon of hope. It shows that by making informed decisions about material selection, we can significantly reduce our environmental impact without compromising on quality or cost. The study’s findings could shape future developments in the field, encouraging other countries to adopt similar practices and paving the way for a more sustainable future.