Integration of techno-economic and life cycle assessment: defining and applying integration types for chemical technology development

Both an environmental and an economic assessment are needed to judge the potential of sustainable chemical technologies. However, decision-makers may be challenged by conflicting conclusions. The integration of life cycle assessment (LCA) and techno-economic assessment (TEA) can enhance decision-making, as integrated assessments provide more information than a simple reporting of separate TEA and LCA results. The analysis of integration approaches reveals a lack of consistency in terms of defining criteria and methodological aspects for integration. A gap remains where guidance for practitioners is needed on how to select a suitable integration type for their different purposes. To fill this gap, we conclude that a one-size-fits-all solution of integration cannot adequately serve all purposes along the technology development phases. Therefore, a framework to guide through integration in three distinct parts is proposed. In Part I, a four-phase approach for every integrated assessment to link the results from TEA and LCA is defined. Part II develops three integration types classified by their core characteristics: qualitative discussion-based (Type A), quantitative combined indicator-based (Type B), and quantitative preference-based (Type C). Finally, in Part III, a step-by-step method to select the appropriate integration type according to the assessment purpose, while considering restrictions imposed by technology maturity and resource availability is introduced. Thus, the framework is a basis for increasing the number of integrated assessments by guiding practitioners towards tailored studies.