Life cycle assessment in sustainable buildings and infrastructure
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63618/omd/revinvlid/v1/n4/22Keywords:
life cycle assessment, sustainable buildings, sustainable infrastructure, environmental performance, life cycle costAbstract
The growing demand for buildings and infrastructure in Ecuador and Latin America has increased the consumption of materials, energy, and resources, highlighting the need to assess their impacts beyond the use phase. The study aimed to evaluate the environmental and economic performance of the life cycle of sustainable buildings and infrastructure using criteria adapted to regional construction and territorial conditions. A qualitative, documentary, non-experimental, and retrospective longitudinal study was conducted, based on a review and comparative analysis of scientific literature and technical studies published between 2020 and 2025. The results showed that concrete and steel accounted for the largest proportion of the material inventory, while the production and operation stages accounted for the most significant impacts; furthermore, sustainable scenarios reduced energy and water consumption as well as emissions compared to conventional alternatives. The discussion highlighted that these improvements depended on material selection, the energy mix, maintenance, system boundaries, and the availability of local materials. It was concluded that integrated life-cycle assessment is a relevant tool for guiding decisions regarding design, investment, and sustainable management, although it requires greater standardization and the incorporation of national data.
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