Sustainability of Cuban construction supply chain by means of LC3 cement: Case studies in Villa Clara province

Abstract

This paper aims at assessing the implications of using Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3) in the Cuban construction sector from a sustainability viewpoint. By means of combining Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), economic cost analysis and eco-efficiency approach, two construction techniques have been compared, taking as a functional unit one square meter of usable area. In spite of the inverse correlation between economic efficiency and ecological impact for all confronted techniques, complementary indicators showed some trade-offs at social level. The economic-ecological efficiency of LC3 potential use is linked to two different sources: the construction method and the cement type itself. Relevant decision-making considerations could support economic policy in the domain of construction industry in Cuba, if taking into consideration the eco-efficiency portfolio provided by this study. Authors conclude that no one construction method is superior per se from a sustainability viewpoint, but it rather requires major rethinking beyond economy and environment to embrace social indicators.