Análise da pegada hídrica total: um estudo de caso em uma empresa da construção civil localizada na Cidade de Sousa – PB.

Abstract

This proposal of research seeks to determine and analyze the water footprint of concrete, based on the water used by a construction company, located in Sousa-PB. It aimed to determine the amount of concrete in cubic meters in the years between 2013 to 2015, to know the water footprint of the product, which, in fact, is the cubic meter of concrete. Thus, companies can invest in technology to provide the required amount of natural resources, concerning the water and, at the same time, how its product can add value to the market, as the concern about the environment is growing. This issue is of great importance and must be analyzed and diagnosed using mathematical models appropriate to local conditions of the building, so that accurate estimates are made in relation to the total amount of cubic meter of concrete. Based on this fact, analyzes were performed using the method of Water Footprint to check its efficiency and effectiveness in generating information on the amount of water required for production, so it can be used in a future environmental control project or in accounting disclosure, in order to share environmental generated revenues not accounted by the company studied. Given the results, the total water footprint in a housing unit of 88,45m² constructed area was 0,2099m³/t, however, using innovative techniques such as additives, the total water footprint decreases considerably getting 0,0937m³/t. The water consumption decreases by about 44.64% using the additive and reduced consumption of all items for the manufacture of concrete. It is important to remember also that the cost was also reduced by around 18.42% with the changing features. Therefore, the study of the case on the water footprint can guide further research of the construction industry and provide reliable information to assist in the preparation of sustainability reports of a particular company that aims to generate and demonstrate environmental information.