Data quality rating in openLCA

Question

Hi,

I wondered where I can find the data quality of the LCI datasets. Sometimes the folder "modelling and validation" reveals some information in the form of PDFs that can be found in sources. However, this seems not consistent for every dataset. Can you help me?

Best regards,

Michel

Answer 1

openLCA can calculate the data quality, per process and per exchange (i.e., flow in a process), following the classic pedigree structure. This is explained in the handbook, e.g. (even the old one, in openLCA.org, resources). It is then also calculated for a life cycle. Depending on the database, further data quality information can be provided in other documentation fields.

Comments

Thanks for your quick response. I forgot to mention that I am using the "Environmental Footprint" database. Is there are specific folder that indicates the DQR?
Best, Michel

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Ah indeed, that is new information. In EF, roughly, and I guess because all other tools cannot calculate data quality, and the approach is to some extent based on stakeholder and also tool developer input, data quality must be calculated on the side, typically in Excel, for assumed key processes manually. They also do not go for pedigree classes but for numbers with digits (3.23 etc.).

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Great, thanks for clarifying. That helps a lot!