Minimisation of Waste, Water and Energy Consumption at Extraction of Dimension Stone to Support Eco-Label Certification

Dimension stone quarrying faces significant environmental challenges related to waste production, water usage, and energy consumption. The extraction process typically yields recovery rates between 3% and 60%, resulting in substantial waste material. Modern optimisation techniques and technologies, particularly diamond wire cutting, have revolutionised extraction efficiency while reducing environmental impact [1]. The EU Eco-label criteria now mandate specific material efficiency thresholds for natural stone extraction, emphasising the importance of sustainable quarrying practices. This paper examines strategies for minimising environmental impact in dimension stone quarrying through advanced algorithms that optimise cutting patterns, reduce waste production, and decrease resource consumption. This paper explores how these optimisation methods align with Eco-Label standards while maintaining economic viability. Special attention is given to the relationship between cutting surfaces and operational efficiency, as these directly influence energy, water, and tool consumption rates.