A guide to applying life cycle assessment tools to prospective technologies at the UFZ

Great efforts in biotechnology are being made to reduce the use of fossil fuels and to drive a transition toward a bioeconomy. However, these early-stage technical concepts also carry sustainability risks at ecological, social and economic levels due to large-scale biomass flows when scaled to industrial production. Life cycle assessment methods can help to identify these risks at an early stage and take steps to counteract them. This potential has also been recognized at the UFZ and collaborative efforts between biotechnology developers and modelers have been initiated. Life cycle assessment for prospective technologies, however, presents a number of challenges, such as considerable uncertainty regarding upscaling and the conditions under which the technology will be used in the future. This white paper addresses challenges and opportunities of prospective life cycle assessment methods in an attempt to clarify common questions. Additionally, a survey explored the needs and expectations of future collaborations. The paper outlines the basics of the life cycle tools available in RU6 and proposes a workflow for future collaborations, concluding with a condensed LCA guide (Mini LCA guide) that summarizes the methodology and requirements for joint project work.