IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute

The main question handled in the project ‘Robust LCA’ is how to use LCA for a robust comparison of construction products or any construction works. The project is divided into two parts where the first part deals with a general introduction to methodology problems related to LCA and what we here call ‘choice of system perspective’. The latter aspect deals with the question when to use to use attributional or consequential LCA. An LCA typology is developed in this part of the project, where different ISO 14044 methodologies are classified. The typology also deals with what question these different methodologies address. The second part of the project, given in this report, deals with commonly methodology aspects that are important to find consensus about. These methodical aspects selected and handled here are based on a workshop result. Already existing standards is used as a baseline to describe the current best common practice. The main LCA methodology used as basis for this work is EN 15804, a so call ‘core PCR’, (product category rules) for all constructions products. However, since the common goal within an LCA case study is to use a harmonized method in the entirely study, such PCR are valid for all products and services used in the life cycle of any construction works. For instance, this implies that the impact from different energy wares is to be handled with the same methodology as used for the construction products. This PCR guide includes specifications to EN 15804, as well as the potential development for aspects that are not handled in this standard today. The outlined suggestions and recommendations are the result of a series of workshops, with delegates from different parties within the Swedish building material, construction and real estate sector, including civil engineering work. The PCR guides have been subject to an open consultation that was closed on the 20th of October 2013, where all parties have had the possibility to put forward their opinions. The final recommendation in this report is based on a common understanding within the project group and takes into account the submitted written contributions to the open consultation (version dated 2013-09-18). The recommendation therefore describes the current consensus in the Swedish group participating in this project. Moreover, the PCR Guide was also sent to some EPD program operators (EPD Norway, International EPD system, Institut Bauen und Umwelt (Germany)) and the working group behind EN 16485. This was done to create an opportunity to bring forward dissenting opinion to the specifications given here. Please note that this report shall not be regarded as a PCR, but as an inspiration for future development of such work.

This report is only available in English.