Rationales for and limitations of preferred solutions for multi-functionality problems in LCA: is increased consistency possible?

摘要: The ISO 14044 standard for life cycle assessment (LCA) provides the reference decision hierarchy dealing with multi-functional processes. We observe that, in practice, consistent implementation of this by LCA practitioners and guidance document developers may be limited. In an attempt to explain observation, offer suggestions as how consistency practice might improved, we identify compare rationales (and limitations of) different common approaches solving multi-functionality problems LCA. prevalent understandings specific processes were identified, their respective analyzed. This takes into account identifying implicit underlying assumptions regarding nature purpose that support each approach. identified what believe three internally but mutually exclusive schools thought amongst practitioners, which differ subtle important ways terms understanding LCA, solutions necessary them. These divisions follow two demarcations. first is between consequential attributional data modeling approaches. second adherence a natural science-based approach (privileging physical allocation solutions) socioeconomic (favoring economic modeling. conclude should explicitly differentiate applications. question feasibility practical utility system expansion (currently privileged hierarchy) suggest also make explicit its rationale privileging more clearly science social call formulation additional problems, particular justifying use lower-tier from when these are applied studies. clarity will contribute increased increase potential users information studies informed decisions relevance within context intended