What are the best methods for collecting data in a life cycle assessment?

2 Identify the data sources

The next step is to identify the data sources that can provide the information you need for your LCA. There are two main types of data sources: primary and secondary. Primary data sources are those that you collect directly from the system under study, such as measurements, surveys, or interviews. Secondary data sources are those that you obtain from existing databases, literature, or reports. Primary data sources are usually more accurate and specific to your system, but they can also be more costly and time-consuming to collect. Secondary data sources are usually more accessible and comprehensive, but they can also be less relevant and consistent with your system.

3 Collect the data

The third step is to collect the data from the selected sources, following the data quality requirements and the system boundaries. You should collect data for all the inputs and outputs of the system, such as materials, energy, emissions, and wastes. You should also collect data for the background processes that support the system, such as transportation, electricity generation, or waste treatment. You should document the data collection methods, assumptions, and sources, and keep track of the units, conversion factors, and allocation methods. You should also verify the data for accuracy, completeness, and consistency, and identify any gaps or uncertainties.

4 Validate the data

The fourth step is to validate the data that you have collected, and check if it meets the goal and scope of your LCA. You can use various methods to validate the data, such as peer review, sensitivity analysis, uncertainty analysis, or comparison with other studies. You should also consider the temporal, geographical, and technological representativeness of the data, and how it affects the results and conclusions of your LCA. You should report the data validation methods, results, and limitations, and justify any deviations or adjustments that you have made.

5 Organize the data

The fifth step is to organize the data that you have validated, and prepare it for the next stages of the LCA. You can use various tools and software to organize the data, such as spreadsheets, databases, or LCA models. You should structure the data according to the functional unit, the system boundaries, and the impact categories, and use consistent and transparent formats and conventions. You should also link the data to the appropriate characterization factors, which are the coefficients that translate the inputs and outputs of the system into potential environmental impacts. You should document the data organization methods, tools, and sources, and ensure the data accessibility and reproducibility.

6 Update the data

The sixth step is to update the data that you have organized, and keep it current and relevant for your LCA. You should monitor the changes and trends in the system and the environment, and collect new or updated data as needed. You should also review the data sources and quality, and replace or improve any outdated or unreliable data. You should document the data update methods, frequency, and results, and communicate the changes and implications to your stakeholders.