On Life Cycle Sustainability Unified Analysis

Harn Wei Kua

Journal of Industrial Ecology, 2017, vol. 21, issue 6, 1488-1506

Abstract: Life cycle sustainability assessment (LCSA) does not adequately consider the role of stakeholders in the assessment process, rebound effects, how the concept of vulnerability and resilience are related in a life cycle, and how stakeholders’ risk aversion can be applied to life cycle thinking. Life cycle sustainability unified analysis (LiCSUA) is proposed to address these four issues, while incorporating key features of existing LCSA framework created by Klöpffer and Renner, and the Life Cycle Sustainability Analysis framework proposed under CALCAS. Specifically, as a methodological approach, LiCSUA established the presence of cross†linking indicators, inter†and intradimensional consequences, rebound effects, and potential “transitioning†of these indicators. Stakeholder involvement is effected through a process supported by psychological and sociological theories, and data uncertainties are treated with respect to risk aversion of decision makers who will interpret and apply these data. A mathematical model is also created to link the vulnerability of a life cycle system to stakeholders’ sense of vulnerability, rebound effects, system resilience, interlinkages among life cycle stages, and the adaptive capacity of the life cycle system. Finally, a hypothetical example on wood†plastic composite is provided to show how the vulnerability and impact caused by a shock can be assessed with the proposed model.

Date: 2017
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