Choosing Life Cycle Impact Indicators

Special Session Coordinator: Wayne Trusty, Athena Institute

There is currently considerable discussion and intensive work underway throughout the LCA community on the question of selecting relevant and appropriate life cycle impact assessment measures to meet specific study goals, especially in existing and emerging tools. The UNEP-SETAC Life Cycle Initiative is being especially proactive in this regard, working towards developing criteria to determine relevant impacts one would consider when conducting a LCA study. As might be expected in an evolving methodology, there is also considerable controversy and misunderstanding about the specific requirements in the ISO 14040 ff series of standards, as well as in the emerging standards such as ISO FDIS 21930. This session will attempt to shed light on the issues through an interactive forum, not only among panelists but also with the audience. Each of four panelists will represent a distinct perspective: that of the impact measure expert, the data provider, the tool developer, and manufacturers who perform and/or commission LCAs and are affected by comparative measures. The moderator will set the stage by outlining the current requirements under ISO and then invite each of the panelists to briefly outline their position on the use and future development of impact measures. The balance of the time will be devoted to a facilitated exchange involving the audience as much as possible. This is an opportunity for those involved with LCA or concerned about its implications to voice their opinion and hear what other have to say.