A framework for implementing holistic and integrated life cycle sustainability assessment of regional bioeconomy

Abstract Purpose Currently, social, environmental, and economic risks chances of bioeconomy are becoming increasingly a subject applied sustainability assessments. Based on life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology, (LCSA) aims to combine or integrate In order contribute the current early stage LCSA development, this study seeks identify practical framework for integrated implementation. Methods We select possible indicators from existing suitable LCA approaches as well literature, allocate them concept holistic (HILCSA), based Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). conduct implementation HILCSA, we choose openLCA, because it offers best state most future potential application LCSA. Therefore, not only capabilities software databases, but also supported methods impact assessments (LCIA) evaluated regarding requirements indicator set goal scope case studies. Results discussion This presents an overview available LCIAs their link SDGs. provide HILCSA regional bioeconomy, which includes (product territorial) assessment, applicable with LCIA normalization, weighting, aggregation. The in openLCA allows integrative by conducting all steps single harmonized, aggregated, coherent results. is capable terms planetary boundaries, provisioning system societal needs, communication results different stakeholders. Conclusions Our compensating some deficits S-LCA, E-LCA, integration, shows main advantages compared additive addressing 15 out 17 It addresses open questions significant problems LCSAs scope, LCI, LCIA, interpretation. Furthermore, first its kind actually environment. Regional bridging scales global effects can inform stakeholders comprehensively various impacts, hotspots, trade-offs, synergies bioeconomy. However, research needs LCIAs, software, development remain.