LCA Methodology

Abstract

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Methodologies for regional scaling and normalization steps in life-cycle impact assessment (LCIA) were developed and applied in two case studies in connection with the equivalency factor type of hazard characterization approach. Regional scaling factors are numerical scores used to indicate ranges of the degree of sensitivity that a particular region has for the selected impact categories. Normalization is the process of defining the relative contribution of the characterization scores by impact category to the total impact for the same category. Normalization factors were developed that represent the total, anual, geographically relevant, impact potential (hazard potential from emission loading or resource use) for a given impact category. Global or U.S. data were obtained to develop normalization factors representing 14 impact categories considered to be relevant to three spatial areas: global, state, and facility. The regional scaling and normalization methods improved the ability to evaluate two LCIA case studies in the U.S. and increased the accuracy of conclusions about which alternative processes or individual impact categories had the greatest potential hazard for environmental effects.