Application of LCA as a decision-making tool for waste management systems

摘要: When materials are recycled they made available for use several future life cycles and can therefore replace virgin material more than just once. In order to analyse the optimal waste management system a given material, authors have analysed flows in cycle perspective. It is important distinguish this approach flow analysis from of products. A product analyses cradle grave, but uses some form allocation separate one another cases where component recycled. This paper does not address burdens between different systems, rather focuses on methodology decision making systems analysed. The focus here (raw extraction) grave (the or its inherent energy, no longer use). limitation number times be set by either recycling rate, technical properties material. article describes mathematical geometric progression that used expand boundaries allow times. Case studies polyethylene paperboard illustrate importance including these aspects when part Goal Scope LCA study identify which treatment options best results discussion examine conclusions reached about option most environmentally beneficial higher benefits taken into account. assess complete picture arising must expanded many manages take account If compares e.g. energy recovery with recycling, without expanding include effects reach conclusion preferred. purpose compare options, it loops physical reality. equations loops. error introduced significant. large enough change comparative study, such followed incineration much better directly. comparing solutions, feasible option, relevant ensure underestimated. presented should strategic decision-making management. LCAs due care, as could lead double counting (depending goal scope analysis). For closed loop cannot truly say materials, sophisticated will required, taking fact only certain proportion materials.