DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10. 1065/lca2001.12.070 --- Intention, Goal, Scope, Background. To discuss the process of
stakeholder involvement as undertaken in a post-consumer paper
and packaging waste management LCA study conducted
during 1997-2001 for the Melbourne Metropolitan Area, Victoria,
Australia. Secondly, to present the findings from a survey
conducted with the stakeholder groups regarding their perception
of involvement in the project.
Objectives. To investigate the stakeholder´s perception and value
of being involved in the LCA study intended to generate quantitative
environmental information to support debate, development
and implementation of waste management practices.
Methods. Stakeholders that were involved in the study, both
actively and passively, were surveyed by questionnaire. Survey
findings were analysed in conjunction with stakeholder interaction
experiences obtained in the course of the study.
Results and Discussion. Respondents to the survey believed there
was a sufficient level of interaction between stakeholders and
researchers during the course of the project. The advisory committee
approach helped to timely recognize issues and deal with
them appropriately. It further assisted in the collection of life
cycle inventory data and in obtaining ownership of outcomes
by the research team appropriately responding to the needs and
issues raised by stakeholders.
Recommendations and Outlook. General recommendations for
the inclusion of stakeholders in future studies are to use stakeholder
interactions, wherever it is possible and practical, which
in turn play an educational role, engage stakeholders from the
start of the process and allow additional time in the project
plan for review stages, as well as ensuring that all relevant groups
are represented - industry, industry associations, government
and non-governmental organizations, and also provide sufficient
material and progress for discussion at meetings. |
