Abstract
Normalization in LCA: how to ensure consistency?
Highlights
OverviewIn this discussion paper, we focus on a topic that seems probably not sufficiently addressed in LifeCycle Assessment (LCA): the normalization (Andreas et al 2020)
We highlight the importance of having the same data source for the system under study and the normalization references. While this is possible in a conventional normalization way for Economic Input-Output LifeCycle Assessment (LCA) (EIO-LCA), this remains a challenge for process-based LCA
When in LCA we divide by the totality of the impact as normalization, up to a factor, we divide by the arithmetic mean
Summary
We focus on a topic that seems probably not sufficiently addressed in Life. Cycle Assessment (LCA): the normalization (Andreas et al 2020). We look again at the need for the normalization step in LCA and inconsistencies caused by this step. We highlight the importance of having the same data source for the system under study and the normalization references. While this is possible in a conventional normalization way for Economic Input-Output LCA (EIO-LCA), this remains a challenge for process-based LCA. We show how to overcome this limitation and discuss how a normalization by the geometric mean of the inventory database (Hélias et al 2020) ensures consistency.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
