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Elementary flow mapping across life cycle inventory data systems: A case study for data interoperability under the
Antonio Valente1, Carl Vadenbo2, Simone Fazio1
1European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Directorate D-Sustainable Resources, 21027 Ispra (VA), Italy.
The International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment
|December 31, 2024
Summary
The Global LCA Data Access (GLAD) network developed an efficient mapping procedure to improve life cycle assessment (LCA) data accessibility. This process achieved over 90% mapping coverage between major nomenclature systems, enhancing data interoperability for LCA practitioners.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Data Science
- Sustainable Development
Background:
- Limited availability and interoperability of life cycle assessment (LCA) data hinder its widespread adoption.
- The Global LCA Data Access (GLAD) network aims to address these challenges by improving LCA data accessibility.
- Standardizing nomenclature is crucial for consistent and reliable LCA data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the methodological approach developed by the GLAD Nomenclature Working Group (NWG) for mapping elementary flows.
- To enhance the accessibility and interoperability of LCA data across different nomenclature systems.
- To facilitate a more unified approach to LCA data management.
Main Methods:
- Developed a multi-step mapping procedure involving flow and compartment matching with bilateral reviews.
- Utilized the 'GLAD Mapper Tool,' a free software developed by the European Commission.
- Mapped four major nomenclature systems: ecoinvent, Environmental Footprint, IDEA, and the U.S. Federal LCA Commons.
Main Results:
- Achieved mapping coverages exceeding 90% between nomenclature systems after a few iterations.
- The procedure proved efficient for LCA practitioners, driven by unique substance identification and compartment granularity.
- Approximated matches (proxy matches) were necessary due to the absence of perfect flow equivalencies.
Conclusions:
- The GLAD mapping approach provides a foundation for a central hub for impact assessment methods and datasets.
- Enhanced data accessibility and interoperability contribute to a more unified LCA nomenclature system.
- The open and transparent methodology fosters traceability and collaboration within the LCA community.
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