The Limitations of LCA Methodology Towards Sustainable Construction Materials

Abstract

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is an internationally accepted methodology for assessing the environmental impacts caused by the construction materials. The methodology described in the ISO 14040 standard series consists of goal and scope definition, Inventory Analysis (LCI), Impact Assessment (LCIA) and interpretation phases. While LCI is a phase where the inputs and outputs are calculated, LCIA aims at understanding and evaluating the magnitude and significance of the environmental impacts for a product system throughout the life cycle of the product. The LCA of the construction materials is different from other products because of a wide variety of materials, life cycle phases and the long service life. While the lack of environmental data and the implementation period of LCA restrict the use of the methodology; different goal and scopes, different limitations make difficult the comparisons of the studies. In this study, it was aimed to the promotion of the use of LCA. Brick is one of the common construction materials that cause several environmental impacts. Therefore, the recent studies on LCA of brick production were evaluated. The problems in the use of LCA for the construction materials were identified under the sub-headings; The problems encountered in the goal and scope definition The problems encountered in LCI The problems encountered in LCIA Finally, it was shown which gaps need to be filled for the methodology in the upcoming years. It is thought that LCA should continue to be improved as an analysis methodology which is still in development.