Aggregate production on the Island of Crete, Greece: current production conditions and future perspective

Abstract

Aggregate production is proven crucial for any infrastructure development, including construction work, for the island of Crete (Southern Greece), due to its individual geographical characteristics. Furthermore, since construction has traditionally been a dynamic sector of national economy, aggregate production is playing a major role in the economy of the island.The aim of this study is to evaluate the current state of aggregate production in the island of Crete based on past and present production data and predict future demand under current state legal framework. Aggregate production and quality data, proven reserves within the state-defined “quarrying zones”, as well as their spatial distribution are analyzed for every prefecture of the island. Prediction scenarios of future aggregate demand within the next 20 years are conducted, assuming different economic development rates. In each scenario the annual aggregate production as well as the remaining reserves per prefecture was predicted.