Eco-design and life-cycle assessment

Some of the most widely used ground improvement techniques in geotechnical engineering are associated with the use of Portland cement, which raises significant environmental concerns. Thus, the partial or total replacement of cement-based ground improvement techniques by more environmentally friendly approaches and the adoption of eco-design in geotechnical products are fundamental to contribute to more sustainable practices in the construction industry. Therefore, the life-cycle assessment when integrated into the geotechnical design process plays an important role in promoting more sustainable practices in both geotechnical design and material’s procurement. In this chapter, an in-depth literature review focusing on eco-design and life-cycle assessment (LCA) in geotechnical engineering practice (products, methodologies, and works) is outlined. Furthermore, the integration of LCA with life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA) and/or with social life-cycle assessment (S-LCA) into the geotechnical design process is discussed. An example case study focusing on the practical application of LCA methodology in the context of transportation infrastructure assets is presented. Finally, key remarks from the literature review and the case study are highlighted.