Working Group 3: Methodology

Co-leads

Stuart Coles (University of Warwick) and Nick Coleman (Tata Steel UK)

Researchers

You Wu (University of Warwick)

Membership

18 members

This group aims to understand the LCA methodology landscape and provide insights into how life cycle thinking and assessment can be used to develop policies, benchmarks or targets, and how those can support innovation.

Key questions

  • What LCA methods and standards currently exist?
  • How are these methods used in a regulatory context?
  • What are their strengths & weaknesses?
  • How might adopting a standard methodology for measuring environmental performance effect UK industry?

Working Group 3: Methodology

PDF Outputs

Working Group 3: An Initial Review and Classification of Existing LCA Methodologies

This deliverable provides an initial comprehensive review and structured classification of existing Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodologies. Given the extensive diversity of methodologies, this review systematically clarifies common standards, frameworks, and their sectoral relevance, focusing on recognised international standards such as ISO 14040/44, ISO 14067, and ISO 14025. This deliverable aims to support informed methodological choices, enhance the clarity of LCA practices, and identify critical methodological aspects essential for robust sustainability assessments across diverse sectors.

Lead Authors You Wu
Contributing Authors Nick Coleman, Stuart Coles
2026 View PDF — Working Group 3: An Initial Review and Classification of Existing LCA Methodologies
PDF Outputs

Working Group 1 & 3: Application of LCA Data and Methodology in Policy Making and Regulation: Cross-Cutting Challenges and Research Priorities

If LCA is to be further embraced in policy making and (pre) regulatory developments to promote improved environmental outcomes, then there are several challenges that exist regarding LCA data and methodology. This summary outlines the key challenges, explains the stakes for the UK, and identifies 4 priority areas for research and action.

Lead Authors Working Groups 1 & 3
2026 View PDF — Working Group 1 & 3: Application of LCA Data and Methodology in Policy Making and Regulation: Cross-Cutting Challenges and Research Priorities