TITLE
Life cycle assessment of algal products: A step-by-step guide to application
JOURNAL
Algae LCA
AUTHORS
Braud, Léa (Project manager); Gallardo Rodriguez, Juan (Project member); Rajaonison, Andriamahefasoa (Project member); Schelte, Nora (Project member); Mangini, Silvio (Project member); Bernard, Olivier (Project member); Pedra, Igor (Project member); Monteiro, Laura (Project member); Costa, Luis (Project member); Speranza, Lais (Project member); Bāliņa, Karina (Project member); Bradley, Tom (Project member); Morão, Ana (Project member); Kliphuis, Saskia (Project member); Nyvall, Pi (Project member); Jamois-Piquet, Mathilde (Project member); Schmid, Stefan (Project member); Chami, Ismail (Project member); Perignon, Carole (Project member); Pierre, Ronan (Project member); Ras, Monique (Project member); Verdelho, Vítor (Hosting institution); Cadoret, Jean-Paul (Hosting institution); Unamunzaga, Carlos (Hosting institution)
ABSTRACT
This information paper provides an accessible introduction to Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers in the algae sector, with limited or no experience in the methodology. LCA evaluates the environmental impacts of a product, process, or service across its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life.
Developed collaboratively by LCA experts and non-specialists, this information paper outlines key concepts, applications, and best practices for assessing the environmental performance of algae-based products. LCA is now a common component of EU-funded algae projects, with its range of applications expanding from the assessment of biofuels to high-value compounds and complex production systems. It plays a central role in corporate sustainability, policy development, and in evaluating algae’s contribution to the bioeconomy.
However, applying LCA to algae production technologies and algae-based products presents unique challenges such as system variability, data availability, and methodological choices that can strongly influence results and limit comparability. Raising awareness of these issues within the algae community is essential to ensure that LCA outcomes are interpreted
meaningfully and used effectively. This information paper supports newcomers in understanding key terminology and practices related to LCA in algae systems, enabling more informed decision-making as well as the development of innovative and sustainable algae-based products.
