Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment—A Survey Based Potential Future Development for Implementation and Interpretation

Jana Gerta Backes and Marzia Traverso
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Jana Gerta Backes: Institute of Sustainability in Civil Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
Marzia Traverso: Institute of Sustainability in Civil Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany

Sustainability, 2021, vol. 13, issue 24, 1-18

Abstract: The aim of this study is to define, via an online expert survey, current challenges and possible future approaches in and for the implementation, application, and interpretation of the Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA). Using an online survey, sustainability experts from around the world were surveyed over a period of five weeks, resulting in 71 experts answering 25 questions. The experts were invited by e-mail and through networks; the online questionnaire was the preferred survey choice particularly for reasons of time, cost, and the pandemic. The survey evaluation shows that no change in LCSA is needed. Nevertheless, (1) a detailed optional baseline LCSA framework, with pre-selected fixed indicator sets, (2) a supporting optional but unified visualization tool, (3) a clear and transparent communication on assumptions, targets and system boundaries and (4) early defined stakeholders were identified as relevant for further LCSA implementation and interpretation. Due to natural subjectivity, the results of this written survey are to be understood as recommendations for action and orientation, not explicitly as a prediction. Finally, an action outlook for future LCSA-development is given.

Keywords: LCSA; survey; sustainability expert; challenge; implementation; interpretation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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