I have executed a LCIA of product X using the ReCiPe Midpoint 2016(H), impact assessment method. However I am running into some confusion regarding my results.
Many of the categories seem to have a negative impact assessment result looking at the relative results chart it becomes clear to me that this is caused by the EoL life cycle phase (incineration). Currently, I am using the following approach.
I am using the Idemat2023 databse, and have collected data on: the amount and type of materials used for components, component weights, applied production processes, modes of transport and distances and EoL scenario. I have modeled all individual life cycle phases in similar formats, Model EoL lifecycle phase:
5. EoL
- create a flow named "Life cycle 5" with type: "Product" and unit: "Amount"
- I create a process for it with the same name that takes the following inputs:
- [mass] amount of [idemat EoL process(municipal incineration)] from [idemat provider]
I end up with 5 processes (with linked flows), for each of these processes I create a product system. Then I create a flow named "Product X lifetime" with type: "Product" and unit: "Amount". I create a process for it with the same name that takes as inputs 1 unit of lifecyles 1 though 5. Next I create a product system for "Product X lifetime" but I uncheck "auto link processes" in accordance with: https://greendelta.github.io/openLCA2-manual/epds/calculate_impact_assessment.html. Then, in "Model graph" I manually add and link the previously created product systems for life cyles 1-5 as stated in the manual. Afterwards, I calculate the product system.
I believe the problem is inside the input data for the EoL phase. It is unclear to me whether this material data should be inserted under inputs or outputs or whether it requires a "-" sign or not.
If anyone can tell me more about this or help me would be much appreciated, Thanks in advance!
