Ranking of walling materials using eco-efficiency for tropical climatic conditions: A survey-based approach

Abstract All over the world, “Construction” is an important sector that consumes a significant amount of resources and produces a lot of waste. Buildings as a whole share nearly one-fourth of total electricity generation in tropical countries that results in adverse effects on the natural environment and their national economies. Enhancing the building energy efficiencies relies on material and technology selection that complement the local climatic conditions. Compressed Stabilized Earth Blocks are considered as an innovative and proven building envelope upgrade that enhances building efficiencies both economically and environmentally considering their cradle-to-gate phase. However, the cradle-to-grave life cycle impacts of Compressed Stabilized Earth Blocks compared to conventional walling materials are yet to be assessed in tropical climatic conditions for long-term decision making. Accordingly, the objective of this study is to compare compressed Stabilized Earth Blocks with conventional walling materials such as Burnt Clay Bricks and Cement Sand Blocks. The life cycle thinking approach was integrated with eco-efficiency analysis to compare and evaluate the above-mentioned materials considering their entire life span from cradle to grave. Accordingly, Compressed Stabilized Earth block has been selected as the more efficient material with environmental benefits. Moreover, since it can be used as a walling element even without the application of plaster, costs and environmental impacts could be further reduced when used without plastering. The findings of this research will encourage building developers, contractors, and practitioners in selecting the most desirable material for their projects considering costs and environmental impacts of the material life cycle.