Evolution and development of the conceptual framework and methodology of life-cycle impact assessment

This document summarizes 2 larger, more detailed, and recently completed workgroup reports on Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA) (see Barnthouse et al. 1997 and Udo de Haes 1996). The Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) Steering Committee of SETAC Europe and the LCA Advisory Group of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) were workgroup sponsors. The objectives of the 2 workgroups were to continue the technical development and evolution of LCIA and to clarify and broaden the understanding of LCIA. These efforts were based on earlier workshops that began the conceptual development of LCIA (Fava et al. 1991, 1993). This summary notes the discussions, major recommendations, and research priorities of both workgroups. Both the points of consensus and differences of opinion are noted.