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(27-10) Challenges of the UNEP/SETAC Life Cycle Initiative. Udo de Haes, H.A.*,1, Norris, G.2, Jolliet, O.3, Saur, K.4, 1 CML, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands2 Harvard University, US3 EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland4 Five Winds International, Stuttgart, Germany ABSTRACT- According to the Business Plan from February 2001, the UNEP/SETAC Life Cycle Initiative aims at the identification of best available practice in LCA. This aim is clearly beyond the scope of the ISO standards and technical reports, which only comprise the definition of terms, the definition of technical frameworks, the definition of general methodological requirements, and the definition of procedural requirements. Three programs have now been defined under the present initiative: one on LCI, one on LCIA and, as an important addition, one on LCM. In the process of preparing the initiative, the aim of "best practice" appeared to be too ambitious. Now the aim is defined as "recommended practice" for the programs on LCI and LCIA and "good practice" for the program on LCM. Definition studies for these three programs will be launched in Tokyo in December 2001, during the first official workshop of the initiative. A critical element in these definition studies will be the identification of user needs, as defined by industry. Thus the initiative sets as its challenging goal to be primarily demand driven. The presentation will focus on the core elements of the definition studies of the three programs. In addition an overview will be given of the organisation of the initiative and the possibilities for participation. Key words: Life Cycle Assessment, Life Cycle Management, best practice, UNEP-SETAC co-operation |
