Streamlined LCA Model Development and Demonstration

PACIFIC NW POLLUTION PREVENTION RESEARCH CENTER
POLLUTION PREVENTION RESEARCH PROJECTS DATABASE

Project Name: Streamlined LCA Model Development and Demonstration

Date Last Updated: 5/96

Project Summary: This project is aimed at transforming Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) from a specialized tool applied primarily by LCA professionals to a more comprehensive analytical and decision support technique accessible by a broad audience of decision makers. The main objective is to develop and demonstrate a streamlined LCA approach that includes life cycle costing and apply it in a series of demonstrations.

Demonstration studies will be conducted in areas including: - alternative paints and coatings for auto oil filers - alternative adhesives for auto interiors - recycled vs. virgin newsprint for newspaper printing - alternative cleaning systems - fiberglass-reinforced plastics - composite wood A guidelines document for streamlining LCAs is scheduled to be completed during fiscal year 1997.

Project Keywords: Life-cycle assessment, eco-balance, life-cycle costing, streamlined, paints and coatings, adhesives, cleaning systems, recycled newsprint, fiberglass-reinforced plastics, composite wood

Organization Performing Research: Research Triangle Institute

Primary Research Contact:
Coleen Northeim
RTI
PO Box 12194
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2194
phone: (919) 541-5816
fax: (919) 541-5945

Date Research Started/Completed: 10/94 - 10/97

Publications Based on Research: Weitz, K., Todd, J. A. and Malkin, M., Streamlining Life-Cycle Assessment: Considerations and A Report on the State of Practice, to be published in the International Journal of LCA.

Approximate Project Budget: $900,000

Primary Project Funder: US Environmental Protection Agency

Funder Contact:
N. Theresa Hoagland
US Environmental Protection Agency
26 West Martin Luther King Dr., MS 466
Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
phone: (513) 569 7783
fax: (513) 569-7677
e-mail: hoagland.theresa@epamail.epa.gov