Midpoint and endpoint characterization factors for mineral resource dissipation: methods and application to 6000 data sets

• DOI: 10.1007/s11367-022-02093-2
• Publication Date: 2022-09-08T11:03:07Z
• Authors: Alexandre Charpen...; Philippe Loubet; Christoph Helbig; Antoine Beylot; Stéphanie Muller; Jacques Villeneuve; Bertrand Laratte; Andrea Thorenz; Axel Tuma; Guido Sonnemann
• Keywords: Midpoint; Characterization

Abstract Purpose The accessibility to most metals is crucial modern societies. In order move towards more sustainable use of metals, it relevant reduce losses along their anthropogenic cycle. To this end, quantifying dissipative flows mineral resources and assessing impacts in life cycle assessment (LCA) has been a challenge brought up by various stakeholders the LCA community. We address with extension previously developed impact methods evaluating how these updated compare widely used for resource use. Methods Building on previous works, we extend coverage average dissipation rate (ADR) lost potential service time (LPST) 61 metals. Midpoint characterization factors are computed using dynamic material flow analysis results, endpoint factors, applying market price as proxy value. apply metal from 6000 data sets abiotic depletion ReCiPe 2016 anticipate newly might latter two ones. Results discussion midpoint enable distinguishing between based global patterns once they have extracted ground. further allow differentiating value annual prices. Metals high that dissipate quickly highest factors. application study shows largest expected ADR LPST methods, relatively expensive greater relative contribution assessment. Conclusion extended provide new information associated potentially humans. readily applicable current inventories. This may be complementary provided other addressing different pathways when studies. Additional research needed improve society resources.