(PH181) Integrating Properties Specific To Metals Into Life Cycle Impact Assessments.
Adams, W.1, 1 Rio Tinto, Murray, UT, USA
ABSTRACT- The intent of this paper is to initiate discussion relative to differences between life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) and risk assessment (RA) and to briefly discuss emerging concepts in risk assessment of metals that might be included in LCIA. As the science of LCIA evolves, it is envisioned that LCA impact assessment will incorporate key components of risk assessment, i.e., integration of effects and exposure assessment, which allow for an estimation of the potential for ecological or human health effects. Additionally it is envisioned that other aspects critical to assessing effects of metals including speciation, bioavailability, homeostasis and essentiality will be integrated into the assessment. Discussion relating to the properties specific to metals and their potential role in LCIA will be presented.
Key words: LCA, : Life cycle assessment, LCIA, Metals