Qualitative Characterization of Concrete Production in Panama from an Environmental Perspective: Water, Energy, and CO 2 Emissions

This study compares the technological routes of concrete production in Panama from an environmental perspective, focusing on water, energy, and CO 2 flows per process to identify opportunities for improvement. It addresses a critical gap found in the literature where flow diagrams and production processes are presented as being standardized across concrete plants, offering an in-depth qualitative analysis of resource flows. Data from 20 concrete plants revealed significant variability in resource use and potential environmental impacts due to differences in technology, location, and resource availability. Flow diagrams and similarity dendrograms highlight the similarities and differences in the technological routes. The key findings include variability in water sources and energy consumption patterns, with some utilizing rainwater harvesting and water recycling and most plants relying on grid electricity and diesel. The best practices include the implementation of environmental indicators and water recycling systems. CO 2 injection, already adopted by two plants, shows promise; however, its potential additional energy demands should be assessed. Covering aggregate storage areas for temperature control reduces water spraying needs and could support rainwater harvesting, with opportunities to integrate solar panels. Regular maintenance of concrete trucks also enhances efficiency and reduces environmental impact due to diesel consumption. The study underscores the importance of tailored strategies to improve water and energy efficiency, aligning with national and international initiatives such as “Reduce tu Huella” (Reduce your Footprint) and the 2030 Agenda. These findings provide actionable insights to support the development of a more sustainable concrete industry in Panama and beyond.