Cleaner Technology Life Cycle Methods: European Research and Development 1992-1994

Abstract

Cleaner manufacturing is an increasing goal for industry in Europe for both existing and new facilities. The central issue is, how does one quantify cleaner? Toward that end, many university and industry groups in Europe are applying the principles of life cycle analysis (LCA). They also seek to develop new methods for use in the life cycle analysis process. These efforts fit in three categories 1) life cycle inventory or characterization, 2) the simplification algorithms to reduce the complexity of life cycle inventory to a single environmental factor, and 3) the policy or process utilization of these information. The review of activities in the field of determining what are cleaner manufacturing alternatives was conducted in five European countries and the European Union (EU) and for the period spanning 1992-1994. The purpose was to summarize and to establish mechanisms for U.S. engineers and scientists to begin collaboration with these research programs. Finally, some observations are made which compare the U.S. pollution prevention thrust with the European system for life cycle analysis and ecolabelling as a means to achieve environmental improvements.