An integrated approach for risk‐based life cycle assessment and multi‐criteria decision‐making

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Abstract
Purpose: This paper proposes an integrated methodology for process design to guide decision making under uncertainty by combining life cycle assessment (LCA) with multi‐criteria decision‐making tools.Design/methodology/approach: Cleaner and greener technologies for process and product selection and design have gained popularity in recent years. The LCA is a systematic approach that enables selection of cleaner and greener products and processes. Recently, significant progress has been made for the use of LCA for product/process evaluation and selection. However, its use in process design and environmental decision making has not been fully exploited. The proposed methodology GreenPro‐I is a systematic approach to estimate environmental risks/impacts associated with life cycle of products, processes and services. It evaluates environmental burdens by quantifying energy and materials used and waste released into the environment. It identifies and evaluates opportunities, which affect environmental improvements. The assessment includes the extraction/excavation and processing of raw materials, manufacturing, transportation and distribution, use, recycle, and final disposal.Findings: GreenPro‐I overcomes many of the problems faced in the conventional approaches and establishes a link between the environmental risks/impacts, cost, and technical feasibility of processes.Originality/value: GreenPro‐I provides a comprehensive decision‐making tool for designers, regulatory agencies, business organizations and other stakeholders.