Sustainable development of stone and marble sector in Palestine

This paper focuses on the environmental, economic, and social impact of stone and marble industry in the Middle East and North Africa region taking Palestine as a case study. It presents the lifecycle of stone and marble, with adequate indicators, and proposes strategy for proper and efficient use of resources including natural stone, water and energy during production processes. 3Rs (Reclaim, Reuse and Recycle) principles are used to minimize the waste at each stage of stone and marble lifecycle and hence improve its material efficiency. Stone and marble sector is modeled using doughnut-modeling technique taking into account most of the factors influencing this sector. The value contribution of this sector is discussed showing the rational relation between consumption and production. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.