15 Sustainability Metrics in the Microalgae-Based …
375
Fig. 15.8 Summary framework for application of life cycle assessment
inventory (LCI), life cycle impact assessment (LCIA), and interpretation (Fig. 15.8).
These divisions act as guiding stages for the application of the LCA.
In short, both the scope definition steps and the inventory analysis present critical
points of conduct. However, it is known that the greater relevance is attributed to
the stage of impact assessment since this stage is aimed at transforming inputs and
processes in equivalent indicators. Thus, in view of the need to establish sustainability
metrics in the production of the microalgae-based pigment, altogether ten categories
of impacts are divided according to their individualities (Table 15.1).
Numerous studies can be found in the literature on the cultivation of microalgae,
specifically for the purpose of obtaining renewable energy. However, the field of
research on the environmental sustainability assessment of bioactive compounds,
such as microalgae-based pigments, to date has not been extensively explored
(Table 15.2).
375
Fig. 15.8 Summary framework for application of life cycle assessment
inventory (LCI), life cycle impact assessment (LCIA), and interpretation (Fig. 15.8).
These divisions act as guiding stages for the application of the LCA.
In short, both the scope definition steps and the inventory analysis present critical
points of conduct. However, it is known that the greater relevance is attributed to
the stage of impact assessment since this stage is aimed at transforming inputs and
processes in equivalent indicators. Thus, in view of the need to establish sustainability
metrics in the production of the microalgae-based pigment, altogether ten categories
of impacts are divided according to their individualities (Table 15.1).
Numerous studies can be found in the literature on the cultivation of microalgae,
specifically for the purpose of obtaining renewable energy. However, the field of
research on the environmental sustainability assessment of bioactive compounds,
such as microalgae-based pigments, to date has not been extensively explored
(Table 15.2).