Consequential LCA expands the scope of traditional assessment by asking a different question: not just what are the impacts of this system, but how does a decision change the broader system?

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This approach considers how changes in demand influence markets, technologies, and production systems. For example, choosing one material over another does not only affect the immediate project, but can shift supply chains, trigger substitutions, and influence future production.

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Working with consequential LCA requires a strong understanding of economic relationships, marginal technologies, and system dynamics. It also requires transparency in assumptions and careful handling of uncertainty.

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I use consequential LCA to explore the real-world implications of decisions, particularly in early design phases, policy contexts, and strategic planning, where choices have far-reaching effects beyond the project itself.

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Key points

• Focuses on changes caused by decisions, not just static impacts

• Models market responses and system-wide effects

• Supports strategic and policy-level decision-making

• Requires careful handling of assumptions and uncertainty