Lifecycle assessment from construction to disposal Clarksville TN

The construction phase involves extracting raw materials (cement, sand, gravel), which can lead to habitat destruction and resource depletion. Energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions during manufacturing of cement and transportation of materials also contribute significantly to the environmental footprint.

A well-constructed concrete driveway can last 25-30 years or more in Clarksville, TN. Periodic sealing to prevent water penetration, cleaning to avoid stains, and repair of cracks or damage are typical maintenance tasks that prolong its lifespan while minimizing environmental impact through reduced need for new material use.

At the end of its life, a concrete driveway can be demolished and either sent to a landfill or recycled. Landfilling contributes to land-use concerns and potential contamination issues. Recycling into aggregate for new construction projects reduces demand for virgin materials but requires energy for crushing and processing.

Local regulations may dictate recycling requirements, proper disposal methods for demolition waste, permissible levels of emissions during construction phases, as well as incentives for using eco-friendly building materials. These factors all influence the LCA by potentially reducing negative environmental impacts through enforced sustainable practices.