Geo-Spatial Analysis of Bio-based Construction Materials Supply in the Italian Industry

The efficiency of green building material supply chains can be enhanced through the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technologies and Google Earth Engine (GEE). This study leverages open-source data to monitor and analyze the geographic supply of Bio-Based Construction Materials (BbCMs) across Italy. Using the GEE, an interactive application was developed to integrate diverse datasets and to promote the use of BbCMs within the construction sector. It integrates three key components: (1) mapping BbCM suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors; (2) estimating biomass availability from agricultural waste and wood residues, with projections for 2040 and 2050; and (3) modeling Forest Aboveground Biomass Density (FABGD). The interactive GEE application provides insights to support sustainable construction practices and identifying viable sources of raw materials and to assess the feasibility of expanding BbCMs production areas. Preliminary results indicate that there are 38 key companies in Italy positioned to scale the production of BbCMs, with a strong concentration in Northern regions due to abundant biomass feedstocks. The spatial distribution of potential biomass supply highlights significant regional variations, with maize stover waste emerging as the most promising resource, capable of contributing to nearly 280 million m2 to produce boards. Future research should take a more comprehensive approach.