LCA Methodology

Abstract

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Marginal technologies are defined as the technologies actually affected by the small changes in demand typically studied in pro-spective, comparative life cycle assessments. Using data on marginal technologies thus give the best reflection of the actual conse-quences of a decision. Furthermore, data on marginal technologies are easier to collect, more precise, and more stable in time than data on average technologies. A 5-step procedure is suggested to identify the marginal technologies. The step-wise procedure first clarifies the situation in which the marginal should apply, and then identifies what specific technology is marginal in this situation. The procedure is illustrated in two examples: European electricity production and pulp and paper production.