Using LCA-based approaches to evaluate pollution prevention

This paper describes how a Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach can be a beneficial support tool in assessing pollution prevention (P2) opportunities. LCA evaluates potential upstream and downstream impacts that may result from the implementation of a P2 activity, including impacts during resource extraction, manufacturing, product use and maintenance, and final disposal. Two such LCA-based approaches, developed by EPA's Pollution Prevention Research Branch, are presented. The first approach is a preliminary P2 Factors methodology that was developed using the lithographic printing industry as the test industry. Two P2 activities were selected for study: solvent substitution in blanket and press wash and waterless versus conventional dampening fountain system printing. The second approach accesses P2 progress when incorporating product re-design, reformulation or replacement. The P2 Progress method compares the pollution generated by the manufacturing, use and disposal of the original product with the modified product. A fictionalized reformulation of rubber cement demonstrates the P2 Progress method.