Promoting Urban Sustainability Through the Local Production of Ecological Paving Stones and Green Coal

Djornele Mpiere () and John Kowa Kamanda ()
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Djornele Mpiere: Pan African University Institute of Water and Energy Science, including Climate change (PAUWES)
John Kowa Kamanda: Pan African University Institute of Water and Energy Science, including Climate change (PAUWES)

Circular Economy and Sustainability, 2025, vol. 5, issue 5, 4551-4564

Abstract: Abstract Urban sustainability is crucial for addressing environmental degradation, resource depletion, and waste accumulation in rapidly growing cities. The transition toward a circular economy offers a practical solution by repurposing waste into eco-friendly construction and energy alternatives, such as ecological paving stones and green coal. These innovations contribute to sustainable urban infrastructure, reduce landfill waste, and promote cleaner energy sources. Despite the increasing emphasis on sustainable materials, existing studies predominantly focus on the technical properties of eco-friendly paving and green coal. Limited research explores their broader environmental, economic, and social impacts, particularly their role in reducing CO₂ emissions, mitigating deforestation, and fostering local economic development. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of ecological paving stones and green coal in reducing urban waste, lowering CO₂ emissions, and promoting sustainable urbanization. A systematic literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed sources from 2000 to 2023. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to assess the performance of eco-friendly materials in urban sustainability. Additionally, a multiple regression model was used to analyse their relationship with key sustainability indicators. Results show that ecological paving stones show an average compressive strength of 30 MPa, comparable to conventional concrete pavers, with a lower water absorption rate (6%), enhancing durability in damp environments. Green coal production contributes to a 20% reduction in CO₂ emissions and a 15% decrease in deforestation. These innovations support waste management strategies, promote local economic development, and enhance environmental sustainability. The findings highlight the potential of integrating circular economy principles into urban planning. These results align with global sustainability goals (SDG7, SDG8, SDG9, and SDG11), promoting cleaner energy, job creation, and resource efficiency.

Keywords: Urban sustainability; Eco-friendly paving; Green coal; Waste management; Circular economy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s43615-025-00585-5

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