System Boundaries and Input Data in Consequential Life Cycle Inventory Analysis

Journal article, 2004

Abstract Goal, Scope and Background. A consequential life cycle assessment (LCA) is designed to generate information on the consequences of decisions. This paper includes a comprehensive presentation of the consequential approach to system boundaries, allocation and data selection. It is based on a text produced within the SETAC-Europe working group on scenarios in LCA. For most of the methodological problems, we describe ideal methodological solutions as well as simplifications intended to make the method feasible in practice. Method. We compile, summarize and refine descriptions of consequential methodology elements that have been presented in separate papers, in addition to methodological elements that have not previously been published as well as general conclusions. Results and conclusions. A consequential LCA ideally includes activities within and outside the life cycle that are affected by a change within the life cycle of the product under investigation. In many cases this implies the use of marginal data and that allocation is typically avoided through system expansion. The consequential LCI model also includes the alternative use of constrained production factors as well as the marginal supply and demand on affected markets. As a result, the consequential LCI model does not resemble the traditional LCI model, where the main material flows are described from raw material extraction to waste management. Instead, it is a model of causal relationships originating in the decision at hand or the decision-maker that the LCI is intended to inform.