Linking inventories and impact assessment models for addressing biodiversity impacts: mapping rules and challenges

Abstract Purpose An adequate matching between the nomenclature of elementary flows in life cycle inventory (LCI) databases and impact assessment (LCIA) methods is key for ensuring proper application (LCA). However, lacks harmonization among LCA community. This paper aims at defining mapping rules discussing main challenges related to process systematically LCI nomenclatures LCIA models addressing biodiversity impacts. Methods Eight loss are analyzed: five comprehensive (i.e., LC-IMPACT, Impact World + , Ecological Scarcity 2013, ReCiPe 2016, Stepwise), one land use intensity-specific model; two approaches adapting GLOBIO model LCIA. These mapped (ecoinvent v3.6 as implemented Simapro Environmental Footprint (EF) 3.0). A tool was developed support (a) by name, Chemical Service number or available synonyms; (b) implementing specific regarding compartment/sub-compartment, substance name; (c) manually defined proxies (e.g., synonyms, spelling corrections similar substances); (d) assigning characterization factors (CFs). The entails analyzing a case study identify uncharacterized flows. Results discussion We present impacts on with nomenclatures. Mapping proposed chemicals, carbon emissions, use, water particulate matter. Specific aspects be considered discussed. Main gaps associated toxicity climate change EF 3.0 more aligned than ecoinvent 3.6 coverage regionalization level. Analyzing revealed further needs “Chemical, organic” (between 19 20% flows), inorganic” 9 18% flows) radioactive” 14% flows). Conclusions contributes operationalization proposing systematic better LCIA-LCI connection. Different development pathways focused name detail) towards improved level) have stretched gap both Recommendations provided identifying efforts