Gate to gate life cycle inventory analysis and life cycle assessment of marble processing industry: Indian prospective

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive Life Cycle Inventory (LCI) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) analysis of the marble processing industry in Rajasthan, India. The research aims to fill a critical gap in the literature by analyzing large-scale LCI data and LCA specific to marble industries, particularly in India. Through direct engagement with workers and plant managers, the study gathered data from key marble processing regions, Kishangarh and Jalore. The data was meticulously analyzed using GaBi software to assess energy use, material flows, and waste generation, based on Abiotic Depletion, Acidification Potential, Eutrophication Potential, FreshWater Aquatic Eco-toxicity, Eco-Toxicity Potential, Human Toxicity Potential, Photochemical Ozone Creation Potential and Global Warming Potential. The study's gate-to-gate approach captures real-time environmental impacts directly from the marble processing plants, offering a level of detail previously unavailable due to limited data transparency in the sector. The findings are beneficial for policymakers and industry leaders seeking to minimize the ecological footprint of the marble industry while enhancing productivity. The research contributes to the broader discourse on industrial sustainability, providing a valuable resource for achieving eco-friendly operations within the marble processing industry and aligning with global sustainability goals.