Improved Communication of Environmental Impacts – The Case of LCA Results

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a widely used environmental assessment tool. However, only a small share of efforts have been made to extend communication. Researchers, practitioners, and their targeted audiences have divergent needs and knowledge for using and communicating the information provided from LCAs. As such, communication efforts are needed to transparently and coherently identify how LCA can be used and how to interpret the results. The goal of the study is to provide insight and guidance on improved communication of LCA results. The goal is approached, on the one hand, by exploring how LCA results presently are communicated, and on the other, by exploring preferences on communication among different stakeholder groups. The study employs a mix of methods; interviews, a literature review and a final online survey. Results from these methods are later analyzed and triangulated to provide further understanding of improving LCA communication; based on feedback, needs and knowledge from all stakeholders involved in the study and scientific knowledge. The interviews resulted in a review of divergent needs, knowledge and opinions from different societal actors on communicating life cycle-based knowledge. The interviewees highlighted the importance of communication of intent and conclusions. This was however not reflected by the current practice identified in the literature reviews. The survey respondents emphasized the importance of tailoring communication to media and audience, and a need for a certain LCA knowledge when communicating LCA results. Perceptions towards result presentation in figures and tables were mapped. Of suggested actions for improving communication, education and courses received the most recognition. In conclusion, the study identified a need for focus on LCA communication, both when it comes to the identification and evaluation of current practice and providing support for those communicating and receiving LCA results.Improved communication of environmental impact