How can LCA indicators be integrated with other tools and frameworks for circular economy assessment?

2 Multi-criteria analysis

Multi-criteria analysis (MCA) is a tool that evaluates and ranks different options based on multiple criteria, such as environmental, social, economic, or technical aspects. MCA can help integrate LCA indicators with other indicators that reflect the circular economy principles and goals, such as resource efficiency, value retention, social equity, or innovation. By using MCA, you can weigh and compare the trade-offs and synergies between different options, and select the most preferable one according to your preferences and values. For example, you can use MCA to compare the environmental, social, and economic impacts of different waste management options, such as landfilling, incineration, composting, or recycling, and use LCA indicators to measure the environmental impacts of each option.

3 System dynamics modeling

System dynamics modeling (SDM) is a tool that simulates the behavior and interactions of complex systems over time, such as ecological, economic, or social systems. SDM can help integrate LCA indicators with other variables and feedbacks that influence the circular economy transition, such as policies, regulations, incentives, behaviors, or innovations. By using SDM, you can analyze and predict the effects of different scenarios and interventions on the system performance and outcomes, and use LCA indicators to measure the environmental impacts of each scenario and intervention. For example, you can use SDM to model the dynamics of the plastic packaging system, and use LCA indicators to evaluate the environmental impacts of different policy measures, such as bans, taxes, subsidies, or extended producer responsibility.

4 Circular economy indicators

Circular economy indicators (CEI) are a set of metrics that measure the progress and performance of circular economy at different levels, such as product, company, sector, or country. CEI can help integrate LCA indicators with other indicators that capture the circular economy dimensions and drivers, such as material intensity, circularity rate, value creation, or innovation potential. By using CEI, you can monitor and benchmark the circular economy performance and impacts of different entities and activities, and use LCA indicators to measure the environmental impacts of each entity and activity. For example, you can use CEI to assess the circularity and value creation of different products or companies, and use LCA indicators to measure the environmental impacts of their production and consumption.

5 Life cycle costing

Life cycle costing (LCC) is a tool that estimates the total costs of a product or service throughout its life cycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal or recycling. LCC can help integrate LCA indicators with other indicators that reflect the economic aspects of circular economy, such as cost savings, revenue generation, or profitability. By using LCC, you can evaluate and compare the economic performance and impacts of different options, such as design alternatives, material choices, or waste management strategies. For example, you can use LCC to calculate the total costs and benefits of different circular economy solutions, such as reuse, refurbishment, or remanufacturing, and use LCA indicators to measure the environmental impacts of each solution.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?