Input-output analysis for use in life cycle assessment: introduction to regional modelling

Abstract

The objective of this thesis is to study the combination of environmental Input-Output (IO) models with Life Cycle Inventory (LCI) into a common framework which allows for regional/national environmental analyses meanwhile conserving process details. Our results show that this is possible by "adapting" the two methods: compiling LCI in matrix form and disaggregating as much as possible the IO tables. Given the poor data availability for detailed analyses at regional/national level, the results of this work suggest starting with a "traditional" IO analysis together with a Structural Path Analysis to identify the most polluting sectors and the paths through which the pollution is propagated. For the identified most polluting sectors, LCA data should be collected and fed into a tiered-hybrid IO-LCA model which gives the regional picture meanwhile conserves process details.