Challenges and opportunities in LCA - the water industry example

Abstract

Challenges like population growth and climate change are maintaining a high level of dynamism in the water industry, resulting in large capital investments and the consideration of alternatives to conventional water supplies. In this environment, LCA is appreciated as a useful planning tool, but it has not yet achieved its full potential due to the lack of a national sustainability framework and other factors. In this paper, examples of recent LCAs in the water industry are discussed. The practical justification and resourcing of LCAs are examined. In addition, two case studies are presented illustrating how LCA can assist the planning process and the degree to which hybridisation presents a methodological challenge to traditional process LCA. Finally, the implications of the new WSAA Sustainability Framework for the future of LCA practice are discussed.