Environmental impacts of limeter quarry and implementation ofzero waste systems: The case of Şanlıurfa

Limestone, also known as calcareous rock, is known as CaCO₃ (calcium carbonate). Limestone is primarily a carbonate sedimentary rock composed of the skeletal fragments of marine organisms such as corals, foraminifera, and mollusks. Since limestone is a crucial raw material in the construction industry, its production is of significant importance. In limestone quarries, dust, noise, and waste generation are major concerns. Various studies have been conducted on what can be done to mitigate these issues. Today, the operation of limestone quarries has become essential, as crushed stone produced in these quarries is a key raw material for ready-mixed concrete, which is constantly used in the construction sector. In this study, waste identification practices were addressed in six selected pilot limestone quarries based on the Waste Management Regulation published in the Official Gazette by the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change. In line with the Zero Waste Regulation published in the Official Gazette, the goal was to minimize waste and assess the applicability of the Zero Waste Management System. Additionally, calculations of the Total Dust Emission Factor were made according to the limit values defined in the Regulation on the Control of Industrial Air Pollution, also published in the Official Gazette by the same ministry. Based on the limit values specified in the Environmental Noise Control Regulation, the Equivalent Continuous Sound Level (Leq) was calculated using the atmospheric absorption method. As a result, this study demonstrates that, as long as environmental regulations are followed, the operation of limestone quarries in Şanlıurfa would not pose a threat to public or human health, provided that identified environmental impacts and necessary precautions are taken into account.