Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) of Selected Non-Metallic Mineral Supply Chains in Jodhpur Division, Rajasthan: Environmental Hotspots under Current Mining Practices
Author : Dr. Indu Deval
Abstract :
The Jodhpur Division of Rajasthan represents one of India’s most resource-rich regions in terms of non-metallic minerals such as Siliceous Earth, Selenite, Fluorite, Limestone, Wollastonite, and Magnesite. These minerals serve as essential raw materials for cement, glass, ceramics, and chemical industries. However, the current semi-mechanized mining practices have resulted in significant environmental burdens, including high energy consumption, dust generation, and greenhouse gas emissions. This study applies a Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) framework to evaluate the cradle-to-gate environmental impacts of these six major minerals under prevailing mining and processing conditions. Using simulated but realistic primary data from mine operations, transportation, and processing units, the analysis was conducted through open LCA software employing the CML-IA baseline method. The results reveal that diesel-based transport and crushing operations contribute the highest carbon footprint—ranging from 0.32 to 0.58 tons of CO₂-equivalent per ton of processed mineral. The study identifies key environmental hotspots and recommends interventions such as mechanized loading, renewable energy adoption, and local beneficiation to minimize life-cycle impacts. This research underscores the urgent need to transition toward sustainable mining practices in arid regions such as Jodhpur Division, aligning with India’s national targets on carbon intensity reduction.
Keywords :
Life-Cycle Assessment, Non-Metallic Minerals, Jodhpur Division, Carbon Footprint, Environmental Hotspots, Supply Chain Sustainability.
