|
|
How is LCA being considered in the instrument on plastic pollution? |
|
At its 4th session, the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment, established two Ad hoc intersessional open-ended expert groups to inform and advance technical discussions ahead of the 5th session of the INC, scheduled to take place from 25 November to 1 December 2024 in Busan, Republic of Korea. Life-Cycle Approaches remain a central point in the discussions, as the UNEA Resolution 5/14, decided that “the intergovernmental negotiating committee is to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, based on a comprehensive approach that addresses the full life cycle of plastic.” Of particular interest to the LCA community may be the work of the second Ad hoc intersessional open-ended expert groups, referred to as Expert Group 2. Expert Group 2 (EG2) was mandated to identify and analyse criteria- and non-criteria-based approaches regarding plastic products and chemicals of concern in plastic products, and product design focusing on recyclability and reusability of plastic products, considering their uses and applications, for the consideration by the Committee at INC-5. Read more on the integration of Life Cycle Approaches in the instrument on plastic pollution. |
|
Life Cycle Initiative Steering Committee Elections The Life Cycle Initiative’s 8th online General Assembly will take place on 2nd of October 2024 from 12:30-15:00 (CEST). This event is open to all members of the Initiative. Institutional members with experience in life cycle approaches, based in the regions listed below, and who demonstrate a strong interest and commitment to taking on a role within the Steering Committee, are encouraged to submit their applications online no later than 18 of September, 2024. A link to the online candidacy application has been sent to members along with the invitation to the General Assembly. Membership is open year-round: you can complete the online application form at any time to join the Initiative. To maintain the geographical balance in the Steering Committee, this year members from the following regions are eligible for election to the Steering Committee: - Government: Africa, West Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia/Pacific,
- Business: Asia/Pacific, North America, West Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean and Africa can apply. Notably, there will be two openings for the business constituency. The first candidate elected will secure a seat for a term of three years, while the second candidate will hold the seat for one year (with the option to be re-elected for a full term after this one year).
- Science & Civil Society (Individual seat): Asia/Pacific, Europe, Africa, West Asia. The available position is specifically for INDIVIDUAL members.
|
|
Call for co-authors paper on Generative AI – Impacts on Life Cycle AssessmentWe are inviting co-authors to extend the expertise of our AI in LCA Research Group for an upcoming paper investigating how generative AI technologies can influence and transform Life Cycle Assessment practices. Participation in this project is entirely voluntary, and we are seeking contributors who have a strong interest in the intersection of AI and LCA. Our goal is to have the first draft of the paper completed by the end of the year. If you wish to contribute as a co-author, please submit a brief motivation (no more than half a page) detailing your experience and expertise in either Life Cycle Assessment or generative AI or both. Send your submission to charlotte.vanhal@un.org, with a copy to archana.datta@un.org, latest by September 20th. |
|
Requesting Expert Input on GLAM: Please Complete the Feedback FormThe beta version of the Global Guidance for Life Cycle Impact Assessment Indicators and Methods (GLAM) was introduced on May 8th at the SETAC Symposium in Seville. Afterwards, two workshops were held to finalize recommendations, and updated characterization factors were shared with select industries in early July, for testing. The online stakeholder consultation on August 28th began with a presentation of the GLAM method and updated characterization factors, followed by an interactive discussion. Experts are invited to share their feedback until the 22nd of September on the GLAM method and the updated characterization factors. The Feedback Form is divided into four main sections, each with relevant subcategories:
1) Impact Methodology
2) Characterization Factors (CFs) and their implementation
3) Development and Consultation Process and
4) Additional Comments Find here the GLAM Feedback Form. GLAM Version 1 will be launched at SETAC Symposium in Gothenburg, Sweden, on Monday 21st of October from 17:30 – 19:00. |
|
LCA Food 2024 – Barcelona: Special Open Session on GLAM on 10th SeptemberThe Life Cycle Initiative hosts a special open session on Global Guidance for Life Cycle Impact Assessment Indicators and Method (GLAM) on the 10th of September from 13:40 – 14:25 CEST during LCA Food 2024 at the University of Barcelona, Auditorium Paranimf, open to all registered conference attendees. |
|
Second hybrid workshop of the Biogenic Carbon Project After the first hybrid workshop in Bath in July and following extensive research on various topics related to handling biogenic carbon in LCA, this second workshop aims to review the working group’s efforts and ensure a coherent format.
The second workshop of the Biogenic Carbon Project will be held on the 23rd of October between 13:30-18:30 CEST. It will be a hybrid workshop with the in-person session held in Gothenburg, Sweden, after the SETAC Europe 26th LCA Symposium. Please indicate through this registration form whether you will attend this workshop online or in-person. |
|
GLAD’s Blueprint Project Stakeholder Consultation Register now to contribute to the GLAD Blueprint project by participating during the consultations on developing a governance and sustainability strategy for a Common Governance Nomenclature System. GLAD’s Blueprint project seeks to address the need for specific governance in the interoperability and nomenclature of elementary flows.
Two opportunities to participate (different dates!) - Online Consultation: October 8th from 14:30 – 17:00 CEST Register here!
- In-Person Consultation: Tuesday 22nd of October from 17:30 – 19:00 in Room Scania during the SETAC Case Study Symposium in Gothenburg, Sweden! Registration for this side-event is not required if you are already registered for the Symposium.
|
|
SEA of Solutions 2024, Bangkok: Plenary Session on Life Cycle Approaches to CircularityOn the 18th of September, Life Cycle Initiative is organising a plenary session on Life Cycle Approaches to Circularity at the SEA of Solutions 2024. The SEA of Solutions organized by SEA circular is a flagship partnerships event towards solving plastic pollution. The Sea of Solutions will be held from 18 – 20 September 2024 in Bangkok, Thailand. You can register here. |
|
SCP-HAT will be showcased during The Summit of the Future SDG Digital is an effort to leverage digital innovations for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), set within the broader context of this year’s UN General Assembly, The Summit of the Future and its Action Days. The SDG Digital Programme will span over a course of two days.
The Hotspot Analysis Tool for Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP-HAT), developed jointly by the Life Cycle Initiative, the One Planet Network and the International Resource Panel, will be presented by UNEP’s Executive Director, Ms Inger Andersen, on 21st of September during the “A Digital Future For All”. This event will bring forward-looking commitments from all stakeholders to harness innovation, science and data in a more inclusive, safe and sustainable manner |
|
Call for reviewers to the Global Environment OutlookUNEP is seeking external reviewers to provide feedback, including identifying any issues, data, or information to be included in the Global Environment Outlook (GEO-7) Second-Order Draft report and for the Summary for Policymakers. Apply here latest by the 30th of September. The Global Environment Outlook (GEO) is the flagship report of UNEP, providing an integrated assessment of the drivers of environmental change, the current state of the environment, the effectiveness of policy responses and the options for achieving different possible futures in the medium to long term. This 7th edition of the GEO focuses significantly on suggesting the solutions to the problems identified, and therefore having a strong presence of LCA experts among the reviewers will be crucial: please strive to find some time for this important task! |
|
Project & Activity Updates |
|
|
Biogenic Carbon Project – 8th of July Consensus Building Workshop in BathOn Monday, 8th July, the first full-day, hybrid workshop of the Biogenic Carbon Project took place at the University of Bath, UK. 23 participants attended in person, including representatives from academia (14 individuals across nine institutions), industry (six participants), and NGOs/consultancies (two attendees). Additionally, 67 participants participated online; to accommodate participants across different time zones, the main discussions were scheduled in the afternoon. The morning session was dedicated to reviewing the working groups (WG) progress and clarifying the issues and options identified so far. This step was crucial for aligning everyone on the project’s scope and ensuring that each WG is moving forward with a shared understanding. The afternoon consisted of a series of structured discussions centred on the features desirable for handling biogenic carbon in LCA. Opportunities for funding phase 2 (Jan – Dec 2025) remain available, as the project’s total funding needs have not yet been fully achieved. |
|
LCA Capacity Building Workshop – Managing Plastic PollutionIn July 2024, the Life Cycle Initiative and Thailand’s National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) co-hosted a webinar aimed at strengthening capacity in managing plastic pollution through life cycle approaches. The event brought together participants from government, academia, and industry to explore the latest advancements in LCA, particularly around how it can be used to assess alternatives to plastic products and also specific chemical substances in plastics. Key discussions centred on the way in which LCA can be incorporated in policies, and included reflections on the latest advancements in environmental assessment tools such as USEtox, which allows robust chemical alternatives assessments. The UNEP team shared insights on how these tools are evolving to better capture the environmental impacts of plastic waste across its entire life cycle. Participants also explored practical applications of LCA in the industry, comparing different packaging options and their environmental footprints. Find the recorded webinar here. |
|
InTex India: Cluster Identification and Proposed Governance Structure UNEP has been working closely with the Indian government during the inception phase of InTex India which was officially launched on February 28, 2024 in New Delhi, India. The project will support the Ministry of Textiles in its endeavours to transition the sector to circular practices and it will focus its interventions with businesses in two textiles clusters: Surat and Karur, with its adjoining clusters Salem, Dindigul and Perundurai. SMEs in the Surat cluster focus largely on processes such as dying and printing while the Karuk and its adjacent clusters host textiles SMEs carrying out a range of processes including spinning, weaving, dyeing, and garment manufacturing.
|
|
LCA Network UgandaLife Cycle Assessment Network Uganda (LCA Network Uganda), launched in April 2018, is at the forefront of promoting the circular economy across various sectors in Uganda. By employing LCA methodologies, the organization raises awareness and advocates for sustainable practices that minimize waste and optimize resource use. Through participation in LCA studies, LCA Network Uganda provides critical insights into the environmental impacts of products and processes, enabling industries to adopt more sustainable strategies. In addition, working with the national stakeholders LCA Network Uganda has contributed to the development of international standards on circular economy. These standards are pivotal in guiding businesses and policymakers worldwide in implementing circular economy principles. By participating in these international endeavours, LCA Network Uganda ensures that Uganda’s perspectives and experiences are incorporated into global sustainability frameworks |
|
|
Life Cycle Community News |
|
|
Workshop on Utilizing LCA and EPD to promote sustainable constructionThe Urban Lab at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), is organising a workshop on the 15th of September on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) to empower sustainable building in Saudi Arabia. This workshop aims to educate stakeholders about the importance and benefits of LCAs and EPDs in environmental sustainability and product transparency. Archana Datta from the Life Cycle Initiative will be participating as a key speaker in this workshop. |
|
 CILCA 2025: Call for Abstracts
The XI International Conference on Life Cycle Assessment in Latin America (CILCA) 2025, will take place from April 7th to 11th in Mexico City, in hybrid format. The call for abstracts is now available and the deadline is September 15th! CILCA 2025 aims to place Life Cycle Assessment as the foundation of the circular economy in order to achieve more sustainable production, consumption, and societies. |
|
Life Cycle Event Calendar |
|
|
14th LCA Food International Conference8-12 September 2024 • Barcelona, SpainThe 14th LCA Food conference will be held in Barcelona, Spain. Hosted by IRTA, a research institute under the Government of Catalonia and the Ministry of Climate Action, Food, and Rural Agenda, this conference is committed to reducing the environmental impact of agrifood systems and advancing healthier, more sustainable diets. With a 28-year legacy, it has grown into the world’s foremost platform for addressing environmental, social, and economic dimensions of sustainability. It attracts participants from academia, consultancy, agrifood companies, NGOs, and public bodies, occurring biennially across Europe, America, and Asia. More information |
|
ICLCAS 2024 – International Conference on Life Cycle Assessment and Sustainability
26-27 September 2024 • Vancouver, CanadaInternational Conference on Life Cycle Assessment and Sustainability (ICLAS) discusses the most recent innovations, trends, and concerns as well as practical challenges encountered and solutions adopted in the fields of Life Cycle Assessment and Sustainability. The conference is held on September 26 and 27, 2024 in Vancouver, Canada. More information. |
|
SETAC Europe 26th LCA Symposium, “Making LCA Meaningful: Good Data, Better Models, Sustainable Decisions”21 – 23 October 2024 | Gothenburg, SwedenThe SETAC Europe 26th LCA Symposium is a two-and-a-half-day event gathering experts from academia, industry, government, and NGOs to discuss the latest research and applications in life cycle assessment (LCA). This year’s theme, “Making LCA meaningful: good data, better models, sustainable decisions,” aims to enhance life cycle inventory data, improve life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) application, and deepen the understanding of LCA’s diverse contexts and enhancements. The symposium will offer presentations, discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities to contribute to these goals. The final version of the Global Guidance for Life-Cycle Impact Assessment Method (GLAM) is planned to be launched at this event. More information |
|
First edition of the MCV Conference series (MCV 2024)13-14 November, 2024 • Lille, FranceMCV is the first French-speaking conference on life cycle practices. The conference was founded based on the request of industry research and public institutions to promote the topic of Life Cycle Thinking in French-speaking regions. The primary objective of the MCV conference is to bring together decision-makers, experts, researchers, and institutions to discuss and exchange lifecycle-based initiatives, innovations, products, and services. Although the primary language of the conference is French, simultaneous translation is provided to facilitate knowledge exchange. More information |
|
XI International Conference on Life Cycle Assessment in Latin America – CILCA7-11 April 2025 • Mexico City, Mexico CILCA 2025 aims to showcase methodological advancements, discussions, success stories, and technological innovations supporting the life cycle approach as the scientific foundation of the circular economy. Abstract submissions on the theme “Life Cycle Assessment as the basis of the circular economy: production, consumption, and more sustainable societies” are welcomed. More information |
|
CIRP Conference on Life Cycle Engineering7-9 April 2025 • Manchester, UK CIRP is organising the 32nd CIRP Conference on Life Cycle Engineering (CIRP LCE 2025), to be held in Manchester, United Kingdom, from 7th to 9th April 2025. The conference website will be regularly updated to provide you with the latest information. More information |
|
12th International Conference on Life Cycle Management (LCM 2025)9-12 September 2025 • Palermo, Italy We invite industry professionals, policy makers and researchers to submit proposals for engaging and informative sessions that explore the conference theme: From Global to Local – Methods, Tools and Best Practices for an Efficient and Effective Sustainable Transition. Proposals should be submitted electronically by 10th September 2024 to info@lcm2025.org. More information |
|
Life Cycle Job Announcements |
|
|
University of Leiden – PhD: sustainability & circularity-based decision support systems (industrial digital twins)
The Faculty of Science, Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML) and the Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs, Leiden University College, are looking for a PhD Researcher on sustainability and circularity-based decision support systems for industrial digital twins. Join the Horizon Europe project called Lasers4MaaS, which will deliver a digital platform to enable manufacturers to make more sustainable and cost-effective products on demand. This position is based in the Netherlands. Apply before the 15th of September 2024: https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/vacatures/2024/q3/15044-phd-sustainability–circularity-based-decision-support-systems-industrial-digital-twins
Knauf Gips KG – Senior LCA Specialist, Product Sustainability
Knauf Gips KG is recruiting a senior LCA specialist with advanced knowledge of modelling parameters as well as expertise in various EPD programmes and in relevant life cycle assessment methods. You are amongst others responsible to develop methods and tools to meet regulatory requirements (including EN 15804+A2, PEF, LEVEL(s), DGNB, LEED and other building certification systems). The preferred candidate fluently speaks German and English. Apply here: https://karriere.knauf.de/jobs/4748426-senior-lca-spezialist-produktnachhaltigkeit-m-w-d?utm_source=KarriereImFU&utm_campaign=KarriereImFU&utm_medium=JobOffer
Equinor – Life Cycle Information Analyst
This position offers the opportunity to be involved and develop in a broad range of topics and business areas across Equinor, from oil & gas to renewables. You will oversee and develop portfolio of technical information Equinor needs in a life cycle perspective. Previous experience of working with data/information management and technical documentation would be an advantage, but Equinor is ooking for both experienced and newly educated candidates. This position is based in Norway. Apply here: https://www.energyjobline.com/job/life-cycle-information-analyst-lci-solutions-22060894?src=Linkedin
Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology – Scientist in Life Cycle Assessment and Industrial Process Modelling
The selected candidate will work in two projects, in collaboration with a steel industry partner, focusing on the development of tools for heat/energy recovery and process optimization. With a focus on optimising the valorisation of industrial waste heat to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the candidate will identify key thermal, economic and environmental parameters of the considered thermal processes. In addition, you will work in a project focusing on Life Cycle Assessment of different crop production systems, together with several international academic partners. This position is based in Luxembourg. Apply here: https://app.skeeled.com/offer/c/66b38093048e241bf5aac574?language=en&show_description=true |
|
| The work of the Life Cycle Initiative would not be possible without the support of its sponsors. By contributing to the Initiative, organizations not only gain access to unparalleled expertise in how to align their activities with their United Nations Environmental and Social Development commitments, but they also play a role in transforming their activities, as models of Life Cycle Thinking. With the new 2022-2027 strategy of the Life Cycle Initiative, funding partners will also get significant visibility through the Initiative’s support to UNEP projects in high-impact sectors such as plastics, textiles, buildings and construction, mobility, etc. If you are interested in becoming a funding partner, please contact us! |
|
Ongoing call for LC Net contributions |
|
|
| Members of the Life Cycle Initiative, please feel free to submit your event, job vacancy, news, capacity development opportunities, topics and stories related to life cycle thinking and LCA, to be shared with the global life cycle community. We are always looking for featured coverage on the experience how life cycle thinking contributes to different policy agendas, sustainable business and decision making, in various countries and regions. You may send your content to info@lifecycleinitiative.org and Ms Emma Poghosyan. Note that we cannot accept contributions of a commercial nature. LCNet is released bimonthly in the beginning of January, March, May, July, September and November; please send us your piece approximately two weeks before the release date. We look forward to your contributions in disseminating life cycle knowledge from global policy and business agendas! |
|
| THANK YOU TO OUR FUNDING PARTNERS! |
|
|
| |
|
