module 14. “life cycle assessment (lca)” 4 steps of … 14 – life cycle assessment 3 namp...

PIECEPIECEProgramProgram forfor NorthNorth AmericanAmerican MobilityMobility In In HigherHigher EducationEducation

MODULE 14. MODULE 14. ““Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)””4 steps of LCA, approaches, software, databases, 4 steps of LCA, approaches, software, databases, subjectivity, sensitivity analysis, application to a subjectivity, sensitivity analysis, application to a classic example. classic example.

Module 14 – Life Cycle Assessment 22

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Tier IICase Study Application of

Life Cycle Assessment


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What is the purpose of this module?What is the purpose of this module?

Case Study Application of Life Cycle AssessmentCase Study Application of Life Cycle Assessment. Demonstrates the . Demonstrates the

application of LCA to a Pulp & Paper case study including the application of LCA to a Pulp & Paper case study including the

interpretation stage.interpretation stage.

Statement of intentStatement of intent


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FinkbeinerFinkbeiner M., M., WiedemannWiedemann M., M., SaurSaur K.; A Comprehensive Approach Towards Product and K.; A Comprehensive Approach Towards Product and OrganisationOrganisation Related Environmental Management Tools. Related Environmental Management Tools. Life Cycle Assessment (ISO 14040) and Environmental Management SLife Cycle Assessment (ISO 14040) and Environmental Management Systems (ISO 14001). PE Product ystems (ISO 14001). PE Product Engineering GmbH, Engineering GmbH, KirchheimerKirchheimer StrStr., ., DettingenDettingen/ / TeckTeck, Germany., Germany.

HUIJBREGTS M (1998a): HUIJBREGTS M (1998a): ““Application of Uncertainty and Variability in LCA. Part I: A GenApplication of Uncertainty and Variability in LCA. Part I: A General eral Framework for the Analysis of Uncertainty and Variability in LifFramework for the Analysis of Uncertainty and Variability in Life Cycle Assessmente Cycle Assessment””. . IntInt J LCA 3:5, 273J LCA 3:5, 273--280280

HUIJBREGTS M (1998b): HUIJBREGTS M (1998b): ““Application of Uncertainty and Variability in LCA. Part II: DealApplication of Uncertainty and Variability in LCA. Part II: Dealing with ing with Parameter Uncertainty and Uncertainty due to Choices in Life CycParameter Uncertainty and Uncertainty due to Choices in Life Cycle Assessmentle Assessment””. . IntInt J LCA 3:6, 343J LCA 3:6, 343--351351

Maurice B. et al; Uncertainty Analysis in Life Cycle Inventory.Maurice B. et al; Uncertainty Analysis in Life Cycle Inventory. ““Application to the Production of Application to the Production of Electricity with French Coal Power PlantsElectricity with French Coal Power Plants””; J. Cleaner Prod 8 95; J. Cleaner Prod 8 95-- 108 (2000) 108 (2000)

Salazar E. Salazar E. MunnochMunnoch K. Samson R. Stuart P. K. Samson R. Stuart P. ““Assessment of opportunities for environmental impact Assessment of opportunities for environmental impact reduction from newsprint production using Life Cycle Assessment reduction from newsprint production using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)(LCA)””, , TappiTappi journaljournal

Salazar E. Salazar E. MunnochMunnoch K. Samson R. Stuart P. K. Samson R. Stuart P. ““Development of a LCA Baseline Model for Newsprint Development of a LCA Baseline Model for Newsprint ProductionProduction””, , IntInt J LCA J LCA

ReferencesReferences


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http://http://www.epa.sa.gov.au/tools.html#emswww.epa.sa.gov.au/tools.html#emshttp://http://www.epa.gov/ems/info/index.htmwww.epa.gov/ems/info/index.htm. .

http://ohioline.osu.edu/cdhttp://ohioline.osu.edu/cd--fact/0188.htmlfact/0188.htmlhttp://www.ag.ohiohttp://www.ag.ohio--state.edu/~rer/rerhtml/rer_65.htmlstate.edu/~rer/rerhtml/rer_65.html

ReferencesReferences


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1.1. Case study example of the application of the LCA at an integrateCase study example of the application of the LCA at an integrated newsprint mill d newsprint mill including:including:a.a. Description of the System StudiedDescription of the System Studiedb.b. Goal and Scope definitionGoal and Scope definitionc.c. Life Cycle Inventory (LCI)Life Cycle Inventory (LCI)d.d. Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA)Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA)e.e. Model Interpretation including Parameter Sensitivity AnalysisModel Interpretation including Parameter Sensitivity Analysis

2.2. ““ClassicalClassical”” model application to identify opportunities for environmental model application to identify opportunities for environmental improvements.improvements.

3.3. Insight into how this model might be used for Insight into how this model might be used for ““Life Cycle ThinkingLife Cycle Thinking””::a.a. In EMS to demonstrate continuous environmental improvement.In EMS to demonstrate continuous environmental improvement.b.b. In EIS to quantify and communicate environmental impactsIn EIS to quantify and communicate environmental impacts

4.4. Multiple choice questionsMultiple choice questions

Tier II: OutlineTier II: Outline


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1.1. Case study example of the application of the LCA at an integrateCase study example of the application of the LCA at an integrated newsprint mill d newsprint mill including:including:

a.a. Description of the System StudiedDescription of the System Studied



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1.1. Integrated Newsprint MillIntegrated Newsprint Mill1.1. Description of the System Studied1.1. Description of the System Studied

IntroductionIntroduction

Life Cycle Thinking is being promoted among different sectors inLife Cycle Thinking is being promoted among different sectors involved on product volved on product chains. This concept implies that the impacts of all life cyclechains. This concept implies that the impacts of all life cycle stages are stages are comprehensively considered when taking informed decisions on procomprehensively considered when taking informed decisions on production and duction and consumption patterns, policies and management strategies. One oconsumption patterns, policies and management strategies. One of the most effective f the most effective way to apply the Life Cycle Thinking concept in the pulp and papway to apply the Life Cycle Thinking concept in the pulp and paper industry is by using er industry is by using LCA in the assessment of process variants. LCA in the assessment of process variants.


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Description of the StudyDescription of the Study

Standard newsprint production at a TMP/DIP integrated mill is thStandard newsprint production at a TMP/DIP integrated mill is the system under study. e system under study. The main production chain (i.e. woodlands, sawmill and newsprintThe main production chain (i.e. woodlands, sawmill and newsprint mill) is located in mill) is located in Northern Ontario and managed by the same company. Northern Ontario and managed by the same company.

Production of woodlands includes (in volume): 75% spruce and Production of woodlands includes (in volume): 75% spruce and 25% aspen. During winter spruce logs are transported 25% aspen. During winter spruce logs are transported to the integrated mill by trucks, while aspen is sold to to the integrated mill by trucks, while aspen is sold to plywood; therefore this is not included as part of the system.plywood; therefore this is not included as part of the system.

Lumber is produced from spruce logs in the onLumber is produced from spruce logs in the on--site sawmill and is sold for the site sawmill and is sold for the construction industry; this product is also excluded from the syconstruction industry; this product is also excluded from the system. The onstem. The on--site site sawmill provides around 70% of the chips loaded to TMP and 55% osawmill provides around 70% of the chips loaded to TMP and 55% of the f the hogfuelhogfuelburnt at the boiler house. Additional chips and hog fuel requirburnt at the boiler house. Additional chips and hog fuel required to cover the mill ed to cover the mill needs are purchased from local area sawmills and transported by needs are purchased from local area sawmills and transported by truck to the truck to the integrated mill.integrated mill.


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TMP yield is around 95%. Refining consumes 70% of the total eleTMP yield is around 95%. Refining consumes 70% of the total electricity at the mill, ctricity at the mill, but part of this energy is recovered as steam, which constitutesbut part of this energy is recovered as steam, which constitutes 20% of the total 20% of the total amount of steam consumed at the mill. The secondary fiber furniamount of steam consumed at the mill. The secondary fiber furnished to the DIP shed to the DIP process includes Old Newspaper (ONP) and Coated process includes Old Newspaper (ONP) and Coated GroundwoodGroundwood Specialty (CGS); they Specialty (CGS); they are purchased mainly from Ontario and USA and transported to theare purchased mainly from Ontario and USA and transported to the mill by truck or mill by truck or rail. The yield of the DIP by Dissolved Air Floatation process rail. The yield of the DIP by Dissolved Air Floatation process is around 85%. TMP and is around 85%. TMP and DIP pulps are furnished to four paper machines in a ratio of 4 tDIP pulps are furnished to four paper machines in a ratio of 4 to 1, respectively to o 1, respectively to produce standard newsprint. This newsprint is distributed to Onproduce standard newsprint. This newsprint is distributed to Ontario, Quebec and US tario, Quebec and US cities by truck and rail.cities by truck and rail.


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The steam required for the process is produced onThe steam required for the process is produced on--site from the following energy site from the following energy sources: hog fuel (44%), natural gas (48%) and sources: hog fuel (44%), natural gas (48%) and sludgessludges (8%). Most of the steam is (8%). Most of the steam is consumed by the paper machines (70% of the total process steam).consumed by the paper machines (70% of the total process steam). The effluents of The effluents of the integrated mill receive primary and a secondary treatment, tthe integrated mill receive primary and a secondary treatment, the he sludgessludges produced in produced in the effluent treatment plant are combined with those from DIP anthe effluent treatment plant are combined with those from DIP and then dewatered, d then dewatered, 50% of the sludge is burnt in the boiler house and the rest is 50% of the sludge is burnt in the boiler house and the rest is landfilledlandfilled onon--site.site.

Almost all the electricity consumed at the integrated mill (arouAlmost all the electricity consumed at the integrated mill (around 98%) is purchased nd 98%) is purchased from the grid, where the atfrom the grid, where the at--source power mix is the following: 33% fossil (coal), 39% source power mix is the following: 33% fossil (coal), 39% nuclear and 28% hydro. nuclear and 28% hydro.


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a.a. Description of the System StudiedDescription of the System Studiedb.b. Goal and Scope definitionGoal and Scope definition



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1.1. Integrated Newsprint MillIntegrated Newsprint Mill1.2. Goal and Scope definition1.2. Goal and Scope definition

Goal and scopeDefinition(ISO 14041)

InventoryAssessment(ISO 14041)

ImpactAssessment(ISO 14042)

LifeCycle

Interpretation(ISO 14043)

• Objectives of study• Functional unit• System boundaries • Included andexcluded unitprocesses

• Data categories • By-productsAllocation

• Data QualityRequirements

Principles and Framework (ISO 14040)


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The objective of the study is to build a baseline model that canThe objective of the study is to build a baseline model that can be used to be used to demonstrate continuous environmental improvement and to assess fdemonstrate continuous environmental improvement and to assess future major uture major process modifications.process modifications.

The functional unit was defined as the production an distributioThe functional unit was defined as the production an distribution of 1 ton of newsprint n of 1 ton of newsprint with 10% moisture content (air dried metric ton: with 10% moisture content (air dried metric ton: admtadmt); the system boundaries include ); the system boundaries include the production chain from wood extraction to newsprint distributthe production chain from wood extraction to newsprint distribution (cradleion (cradle--toto--gate). gate). The next figure depicts the system boundaries.The next figure depicts the system boundaries.

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ElectricityProduction

On-site steamgeneration

ChemicalsProduction

Fossil fuelsProduction


ChemicalsProduction


Forestry

SawmillOperations

Washing Pre-heatingPressureRefining

AtmosphericRefining

Thickening Cleaning Screening Latency

RejectsRefining

Cleaning Screening Deflaking

Flotation Cleaning

Pulping

StockPreparation

Calendering/Reeling/Winding

Forming Pressing Drying

PAPER MACHINE

Paper Making

Deink PulpTM Pulp

Rejects

Accepts

Steam to heat recovery unitThermo-mechanical Pulping Deinking Pulping

Chips

Logs

Newsprint toPressrooms

Integrated Mill

Wastepaper


On-site steamgeneration

ChemicalsProduction



ChemicalsProduction


Forestry

SawmillOperations

Washing Pre-heatingPressureRefining

AtmosphericRefining

Thickening Cleaning Screening Latency

RejectsRefining

Cleaning Screening Deflaking

Flotation Cleaning

Pulping

StockPreparation

Calendering/Reeling/Winding

Forming Pressing Drying

PAPER MACHINE

Paper Making

Deink PulpTM Pulp

Rejects

Accepts

Steam to heat recovery unitThermo-mechanical Pulping Deinking Pulping

Chips

Logs

Newsprint toPressrooms

Integrated Mill

Wastepaper

Cradle-to-Gate Life Cycle Newsprint Production


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Transportation of waste paper from warehouses and its dispositioTransportation of waste paper from warehouses and its disposition in municipal n in municipal landfills as the alternative of recycling at the mill were modellandfills as the alternative of recycling at the mill were modeled in order to assess ed in order to assess potential changes on the DIP content of the newsprint.potential changes on the DIP content of the newsprint.Raw materials (i.e. logs, chips, Raw materials (i.e. logs, chips, hogfuelhogfuel and waste paper) transportation is included. and waste paper) transportation is included. Wastepaper transportation from curbside to material recovery facWastepaper transportation from curbside to material recovery facilities as well as ilities as well as chemicals transportation to the newsprint mill are excluded sincchemicals transportation to the newsprint mill are excluded since they are negligible in e they are negligible in comparison with the raw material transportation (comparison with the raw material transportation (TerrachoiceTerrachoice 1997).1997).

Newspaper printing, use and disposal are excluded because it is Newspaper printing, use and disposal are excluded because it is assumed that process assumed that process variants do not significantly affect the environmental impacts ovariants do not significantly affect the environmental impacts of these stages. For f these stages. For instance, the increase of recycled content of the newsprint affeinstance, the increase of recycled content of the newsprint affects the printability and cts the printability and appearance properties of newspapers in pressrooms and consequentappearance properties of newspapers in pressrooms and consequently more ink is ly more ink is required (required (SmookSmook 1992). However this effects are negligible compared with others1992). However this effects are negligible compared with othersinvolved in this kind of modification (e.g. more wastepaper traninvolved in this kind of modification (e.g. more wastepaper transportation, less sportation, less electricity consumption, less wastepaper to landfill, etc).electricity consumption, less wastepaper to landfill, etc).

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Manufacturing, maintenance and disassembly of assets are not incManufacturing, maintenance and disassembly of assets are not included in the system luded in the system boundaries since these are used for a large number of functionalboundaries since these are used for a large number of functional units during their life units during their life cycles and their impact for one functional unit is negligible.cycles and their impact for one functional unit is negligible.

Data categories used on the study:Data categories used on the study:

By type: measured, calculated, estimatedBy type: measured, calculated, estimatedBy source: primary (from the studied site/company) and secondaBy source: primary (from the studied site/company) and secondary (from ry (from

commercial databases) commercial databases)

According to ISO, for process with outputs that can be partiallyAccording to ISO, for process with outputs that can be partially coco--products and products and partially wastes, the environmental burdens can be allocated onlpartially wastes, the environmental burdens can be allocated only to the coy to the co--products products (ISO 1999). In this case study, the environmental burdens are al(ISO 1999). In this case study, the environmental burdens are allocated among located among lumber, chips and hog fuel because newsprint production depends lumber, chips and hog fuel because newsprint production depends on the latter two on the latter two outflows to cover their fiber and energy requirements, respectivoutflows to cover their fiber and energy requirements, respectively, and otherwise they ely, and otherwise they would be substituted by other virgin materials. Nonetheless, thewould be substituted by other virgin materials. Nonetheless, the effect of alternative effect of alternative allocation approaches on the results is assessed in the interpreallocation approaches on the results is assessed in the interpretation phase.tation phase.

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Data Sources and Data Quality RequirementsData Sources and Data Quality Requirements

For the inventory analysis, its used primary data for the procesFor the inventory analysis, its used primary data for the processes with major ses with major contributions (i.e. integrated mill, electricity production) andcontributions (i.e. integrated mill, electricity production) and secondary data for the secondary data for the background systems with less contribution (i.e. fuel and chemicabackground systems with less contribution (i.e. fuel and chemical production, industrial l production, industrial landfill) and we modeled the system in the LCA software SIMAPRO landfill) and we modeled the system in the LCA software SIMAPRO 5.1. 5.1.

Chemicals and fuels production as ell as landfill are modeled usChemicals and fuels production as ell as landfill are modeled using commercial ing commercial databases. The following data quality requirements were initialldatabases. The following data quality requirements were initially set:y set:

Time : The year of inventory collection is 2001. Data from fiveTime : The year of inventory collection is 2001. Data from five years before is years before is desirable.desirable.

Geography : The system under study is located in Northern OntarGeography : The system under study is located in Northern Ontario. North American io. North American data is desirable.data is desirable.

Technology : Average technology is desirable.Technology : Average technology is desirable.

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However, only for fuels production the available databases matchHowever, only for fuels production the available databases matched with these criteria ed with these criteria (i.e. Franklin database: American average 1995(i.e. Franklin database: American average 1995--1999). For chemicals production, 1999). For chemicals production, European databases are used (i.e. IVAM and BUWAL: European averaEuropean databases are used (i.e. IVAM and BUWAL: European averages 1990ges 1990--1994; 1994; KCLECO: Finnish averages 1992). KCLECO: Finnish averages 1992).

In the case of chemicals for which no specific databases were avIn the case of chemicals for which no specific databases were available (e.g. ailable (e.g. chelanchelan, , coagulants, flocculants and polymers), general databases (e.g. ccoagulants, flocculants and polymers), general databases (e.g. chemicals organic ETH: hemicals organic ETH: European averages 1990European averages 1990--1994) are used instead. Landfill models are as well based on 1994) are used instead. Landfill models are as well based on a European database (i.e. KCLECO).a European database (i.e. KCLECO).

The effect of the gaps between the initial data quality requiremThe effect of the gaps between the initial data quality requirements and the quality of ents and the quality of data actually used on the base line model is assessed on the intdata actually used on the base line model is assessed on the interpretation phase.erpretation phase.

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a.a. Description of the System StudiedDescription of the System Studiedb.b. Goal and Scope definitionGoal and Scope definitionc.c. Life Cycle Inventory (LCI)Life Cycle Inventory (LCI)



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1.1. Integrated Newsprint MillIntegrated Newsprint Mill1.3. Life Cycle Inventory (LCI)1.3. Life Cycle Inventory (LCI)




LifeCycle


• Primary data for

newsprint and

electricity production

• Secondary data for

fuels and chemicals

production

• Modeled on SIMAPRO

• Aggregated inventory

per 1 admt



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The inventory results per 1 The inventory results per 1 admtadmt of newsprint, includes hundreds of substances, from of newsprint, includes hundreds of substances, from which the most important in terms of mass are presented and discwhich the most important in terms of mass are presented and discussed in this section. ussed in this section. In order to have a better visualization, we have grouped the invIn order to have a better visualization, we have grouped the inventory substances and entory substances and present the results in graphs, showing the contribution of diffepresent the results in graphs, showing the contribution of different system processes to rent system processes to the total amount of substance emitted. Note that in some cases,the total amount of substance emitted. Note that in some cases, the scales have been the scales have been modified in order to show all the substances of a group in the smodified in order to show all the substances of a group in the same graph. ame graph.

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Sawmill ModelSawmill Model

Around 30% chips and 40% Around 30% chips and 40% hogfuelhogfuel consumed by the newsprint mill is supplied by consumed by the newsprint mill is supplied by local sawmills, having independent supply systems (i.e. chips anlocal sawmills, having independent supply systems (i.e. chips and d hogfuelhogfuel usually are usually are not supplied by the same sawmill).not supplied by the same sawmill).

In this study, onIn this study, on--site sawmill model is considered as an average for the productiosite sawmill model is considered as an average for the production of n of the total amount of chips and the total amount of chips and hogfuelhogfuel required per 1 required per 1 admtadmt of newsprint. In fact, of newsprint. In fact, electricity and steam consumptions are similar between involved electricity and steam consumptions are similar between involved sawmills, the only sawmills, the only difference can be the energy sources, especially for steam becaudifference can be the energy sources, especially for steam because the fuel breakdown se the fuel breakdown in the newsprint mill boiler house might not be representative fin the newsprint mill boiler house might not be representative for all the local sawmills. or all the local sawmills. However, this difference can be considered negligible if we takeHowever, this difference can be considered negligible if we take into account that into account that steam consumption from sawmill is only 5% of the total system costeam consumption from sawmill is only 5% of the total system consumption.nsumption.

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Transportation ModelsTransportation Models

Round trip is considered for logs transportation and fuel consumRound trip is considered for logs transportation and fuel consumption is based on ption is based on primary data. Oneprimary data. One--way trip is considered for chips, way trip is considered for chips, hogfuelhogfuel and wastepaper supply as and wastepaper supply as ell as for newsprint distribution; return is not included becausell as for newsprint distribution; return is not included because usually cargo from e usually cargo from other companies or systems is transported in the round way. Fuelother companies or systems is transported in the round way. Fuel consumption is consumption is based on mass transported (t or number of loads) and average disbased on mass transported (t or number of loads) and average distances, using fuel tances, using fuel efficiency factors (L/km or L/tefficiency factors (L/km or L/t--km) for truck and locomotive recommended in EPDS km) for truck and locomotive recommended in EPDS guidelines (guidelines (TerrachoiceTerrachoice 1997).1997).

Air emissions are calculated based on fuel consumption using emiAir emissions are calculated based on fuel consumption using emissions factors from ssions factors from the references recommended by EPDS guidelines (the references recommended by EPDS guidelines (TerrachoiceTerrachoice 1997); and from 1997); and from Franklin database, sourced on USEPA APFranklin database, sourced on USEPA AP--42 MOBILE model, in the case of particles.42 MOBILE model, in the case of particles.

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COCO22 Emissions from Biomass CombustionEmissions from Biomass Combustion

There is debate among life cycle practitioners about whether or There is debate among life cycle practitioners about whether or not include COnot include CO22emissions from biomass combustion in the inventory analysis, espemissions from biomass combustion in the inventory analysis, especially when ecially when comparing two alternative energy sources (comparing two alternative energy sources (ReijndersReijnders et al. 2003).et al. 2003).

In this case study, it was applied the natural approach recommenIn this case study, it was applied the natural approach recommended by the ded by the International Council of Forest and Paper Association which is cInternational Council of Forest and Paper Association which is compatible which most ompatible which most internationals protocols, including that of the IPPC. This approinternationals protocols, including that of the IPPC. This approach is based on the ach is based on the assumption that COassumption that CO22 emitted from biomass combustion is the atmospheric COemitted from biomass combustion is the atmospheric CO22 that that was sequestered during growth of the tree; hence, there is no newas sequestered during growth of the tree; hence, there is no net contribution to the t contribution to the atmospheric COatmospheric CO22 level (NCASI 2001).level (NCASI 2001).

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Air EmissionsAir Emissions

The following figures present the inventory results for Green HoThe following figures present the inventory results for Green House Gases (GHG), use Gases (GHG), gases and particulates, respectively. For all the air emissionsgases and particulates, respectively. For all the air emissions, the contribution from , the contribution from chemical production is negligible compared with the other proceschemical production is negligible compared with the other processes (<5%), therefore ses (<5%), therefore it is not shown in the graphs. it is not shown in the graphs.

From the next figure: CO2 is emitted in much higher amounts thanFrom the next figure: CO2 is emitted in much higher amounts than methane and N2O. methane and N2O. Most of the CO2 (i.e. 79%) is emitted from electricity productioMost of the CO2 (i.e. 79%) is emitted from electricity production; note however that n; note however that data of GHG emission from electricity production was collected adata of GHG emission from electricity production was collected already as CO2 lready as CO2 eqeq. For . For methane and N2O, the mill direct emissions present more importanmethane and N2O, the mill direct emissions present more important contributions: t contributions: 88% of methane is emitted from industrial landfill and 55% of N288% of methane is emitted from industrial landfill and 55% of N2O from biomass O from biomass combustion at the boiler house.combustion at the boiler house.

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2

1

0CO2(200 kg) CH4(kg) N2O(10g)

Electricity production Biomass combustion Natural gas combustion

Fuels production Transportation Landfill industrial

GHG emissions per 1 admt of newsprint


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The next figure shows that there is less variability on the amouThe next figure shows that there is less variability on the amount of gases emitted nt of gases emitted compared to the GHG results. SO2 is the gas emitted in the highcompared to the GHG results. SO2 is the gas emitted in the highest amount, mainly est amount, mainly from electricity production (57%) and fuels production (38%). Cfrom electricity production (57%) and fuels production (38%). CO and NOX are O and NOX are emitted almost in equal amounts; their main contributors are bioemitted almost in equal amounts; their main contributors are biomass combustion mass combustion (43% on CO) and electricity production (45% on NOX). VOC is emi(43% on CO) and electricity production (45% on NOX). VOC is emitted in the least tted in the least amount, mainly from fuel production (69%).amount, mainly from fuel production (69%).

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Gas emissions per 1 admt pf newsprint

6

5

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3

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1

0CO NOX SO2 VOC

TMP Electricity production Biomass combustion

Natural gas combustion Fuels production Transportation

Substance

kg


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The next figure shows the emissions of particulates according toThe next figure shows the emissions of particulates according to their size. The their size. The contribution of electricity is the most important for TSP (60%) contribution of electricity is the most important for TSP (60%) and PM10 (52%); and PM10 (52%); however for PM2.5, which are the particles of major concern, thehowever for PM2.5, which are the particles of major concern, the contribution from contribution from transportation becomes more important (45%) than that from electtransportation becomes more important (45%) than that from electricity production ricity production (32%). The combustion of biomass to at boiler house is the thir(32%). The combustion of biomass to at boiler house is the third most important d most important contributor with around 10% on TSP and PM10; and 16% on PM2.5. contributor with around 10% on TSP and PM10; and 16% on PM2.5.

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Particulate emissions per 1 admt

450

400

350

300

250

200

150

100

50

0TSP PM 10 PM 2.5

Electricity production Biomass combustion

Natural gas combustion Fuels production Transportation

g

Particulate Size


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Water EmissionsWater Emissions

The following figures shows water emissions respectively: solidsThe following figures shows water emissions respectively: solids, organic load, nutrient , organic load, nutrient and metals. and metals.

From the next figure: The major contributions for suspended soliFrom the next figure: The major contributions for suspended solids are from the ds are from the newsprint mill (65%) and, in less extent, from electricity produnewsprint mill (65%) and, in less extent, from electricity production (33%); ction (33%); contributions from chemicals and fuels production are negligiblecontributions from chemicals and fuels production are negligible. On the other hand, . On the other hand, fuel production has a significant contribution on dissolved solifuel production has a significant contribution on dissolved solid result (93%).d result (93%).

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Solid emissions to water per 1 admt of newsprint

4.0

3.5

3.0

2.5

2.0

1.5

1.0

0.5

0.0Suspended Dissolved

Newsprint production Electricity production

Chemicals production Fuels production

kg

Type


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The next figure shows the results for two organic load indicatorThe next figure shows the results for two organic load indicators: BOD5 and COD. s: BOD5 and COD. Around 99% of the organic load (for both indicators) comes from Around 99% of the organic load (for both indicators) comes from newsprint mill. newsprint mill. Indirect emissions are shown separately for a better visualizatiIndirect emissions are shown separately for a better visualization and it is observed on and it is observed that among the indirect emitters, fuels production has the highethat among the indirect emitters, fuels production has the highest contribution.st contribution.

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BOD (g) BOD (100g) COD (10g) COD (kg)

Newsprint production Electricity production Chemical production Fuels production

Type

8

7

6

5

4

3

2

1

0

Organic load to water per 1 admt of newsprint


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The next figure shows the nutrient load in two indicators: NThe next figure shows the nutrient load in two indicators: N--t and Pt and P--t. Like in the case t. Like in the case of organic load, the major contribution comes from newsprint proof organic load, the major contribution comes from newsprint production: 99% on Nduction: 99% on N--t t and 93% on Pand 93% on P--t. The second major contributor to Pt. The second major contributor to P--t emissions is electricity t emissions is electricity production with 7%. production with 7%.

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N-t (g) N-t (100g) P-t (g) P-t (100g)

Newsprint production Electricity production Chemical production Fuels production Industrial landfill

Type

2.0

1.8

1.6

1.4

1.2

1.0

0.8

0.6

0.4

0.2

0.0

Nutrient load to water per 1 admt of newsprint


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The next figure shows the most significant metals en terms of maThe next figure shows the most significant metals en terms of mass (i.e. >1 ss (i.e. >1 g/admtg/admt). ). Only for Zn and Only for Zn and MnMn which are natural wood constituents, newsprint production which are natural wood constituents, newsprint production presents the highest contribution (around 98%); while for the represents the highest contribution (around 98%); while for the rest of the metals, the st of the metals, the major contributor is the chemicals production. major contributor is the chemicals production.

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Na(2.5g) Zn(g) Zn(50mg) Mn(g) Mn(50mg) Fe(g) Al(g) Mg(g)

Newsprint production Electricity production Chemical production Fuels production

Substance

18

16

14

12

10

8

6

4

2

0

Metal emissions to water per 1 admt of newsprint


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a.a. Description of the System StudiedDescription of the System Studiedb.b. Goal and Scope definitionGoal and Scope definitionc.c. Life Cycle Inventory (LCI)Life Cycle Inventory (LCI)d.d. Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA)Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA)



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1.1. Integrated Newsprint MillIntegrated Newsprint Mill1.4. Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA)1.4. Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA)




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• Linear modeling• Site and time generic• Global, regional and(global) “local” impacts• Tool for the reductionand assessment ofchemical and otherenvironmental impacts(TRACI)• Results aggregatedper impact category• Optional elementsdiscussed



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Main Assumptions and SimplificationsMain Assumptions and Simplifications

For this study, the output related impact categories proposed byFor this study, the output related impact categories proposed by SETACSETAC have been have been included.included.

Most of the category indicators have been chosen at midpoint, exMost of the category indicators have been chosen at midpoint, except for human cept for human health particles which is assessed at endpoint level.health particles which is assessed at endpoint level.

TRACITRACI is used for the assessment after verifying that meets the ISO ris used for the assessment after verifying that meets the ISO requirements and equirements and SETAC recommendations.SETAC recommendations.

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Selection of Impact Categories, Category Indicators and CharacteSelection of Impact Categories, Category Indicators and Characterization rization ModelsModels

Selection of impact categories, category indicators and characteSelection of impact categories, category indicators and characterization models was rization models was performed according to the objectives and context of the study aperformed according to the objectives and context of the study and based on SETAC nd based on SETAC best available practices which are ISO compatibles (best available practices which are ISO compatibles (UdoUdo de de HaesHaes et al. 1999a). The et al. 1999a). The next table summarizes the results of this process. next table summarizes the results of this process.

Input related impact categories (i.e. Input related impact categories (i.e. abioticabiotic resources and land use) are not included resources and land use) are not included on the study mainly because best available methods have not beenon the study mainly because best available methods have not been yet identified (yet identified (UdoUdode de HaesHaes et al. 2002). Furthermore, the impact of biotic resources is noet al. 2002). Furthermore, the impact of biotic resources is not relevant to this t relevant to this study since the wood resource in the system (i.e. spruce) is frostudy since the wood resource in the system (i.e. spruce) is from manm man--controlled controlled cultures and therefore is not depleted (cultures and therefore is not depleted (UdoUdo de de HaesHaes et al. 2002). et al. 2002).

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TRACI – MichiganDALYHuman health criteria pollutants

TRACI – USAg C7H7eqHuman health-non cancer

TRACI – USAg C6H6eqHuman health-cancer

TRACI – USAg 2,4Deq

Local

Eco-toxicity

TRACI – Michigang NOxeq/mPhoto-oxidant formation

TRACI – Michigang NeqEutrophication

TRACI – Michiganmol H+eq

Regional

Acidification

WMOg CFC11eqOzone depletion

IPCCg CO2eqGlobalClimate change

Characterization ModelsCategory Indicators

ScaleImpact Categories


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In the case of land use, available methods were reviewed (In the case of land use, available methods were reviewed (WeidemaWeidema 2001, 2001, LindeijerLindeijer et et al 2002), however the lack of the specific data for the activitial 2002), however the lack of the specific data for the activities related with the system es related with the system studied was a constraint to characterize this impact. Nonethelesstudied was a constraint to characterize this impact. Nonetheless, inventory data is s, inventory data is included in the base line model in order to analyze results at iincluded in the base line model in order to analyze results at inventory level and nventory level and incorporate the appropriate models when they are available.incorporate the appropriate models when they are available.

All the output related impact categories recommended by SETAC arAll the output related impact categories recommended by SETAC are included (e included (UdoUdo de de HaesHaes et al. 1999b). Global impacts are modeled at midpoint level usiet al. 1999b). Global impacts are modeled at midpoint level using the ng the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC, time horizon: 100y)International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC, time horizon: 100y) and World and World Meteorological Organization (WMO, time horizon: infinite) characMeteorological Organization (WMO, time horizon: infinite) characterization factors for terization factors for global warming and ozone depletion, respectively.global warming and ozone depletion, respectively.

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Regional impacts are modeled at midpoint using the Toll for the Regional impacts are modeled at midpoint using the Toll for the Reduction and Reduction and Assessment of Chemicals and Other Environmental Impacts (TRACI) Assessment of Chemicals and Other Environmental Impacts (TRACI) method from the method from the United States Environmental Protection Agency. This method was sUnited States Environmental Protection Agency. This method was selected because it elected because it includes spatial differentiation in fate and sensitivity recommeincludes spatial differentiation in fate and sensitivity recommended by SETAC (nded by SETAC (UdoUdo de de HaesHaes et al. 1999b) and because it has been demonstrated the potentiaet al. 1999b) and because it has been demonstrated the potentially important lly important influence of release location upon the strength of expected impainfluence of release location upon the strength of expected impact (Norris 2003, ct (Norris 2003, HauschildHauschild et al. 2003). et al. 2003).

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For local impacts, Traci models were also selected. For local impacts, Traci models were also selected. EcotoxicityEcotoxicity, human health cancer , human health cancer and human health non cancer are modeled at midpoint level using and human health non cancer are modeled at midpoint level using multimedia fate multimedia fate modeling for US average conditions while human health particles modeling for US average conditions while human health particles is modeled at is modeled at endpoint level and characterization factors are available per stendpoint level and characterization factors are available per state (Bare et al. 2003). ate (Bare et al. 2003).

Michigan was selected as reference state in the latter case. ComMichigan was selected as reference state in the latter case. Compatibility with SETAC patibility with SETAC recommendations were as well identified for these impacts includrecommendations were as well identified for these impacts including the use of ing the use of midpoint toxicity indicators for species composition for terrestmidpoint toxicity indicators for species composition for terrestrial and aquatic rial and aquatic ecosystems and the division of human health impacts in disabilitecosystems and the division of human health impacts in disabilityy--type subcategories type subcategories ((UdoUdo de de HaesHaes et al. 1999b).et al. 1999b).

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The next table shows the impact assessment results for the impacThe next table shows the impact assessment results for the impact categories. As a t categories. As a consequence of the impact assessment, we have reduced the hundreconsequence of the impact assessment, we have reduced the hundreds of inventory ds of inventory indicators in 9 impact category indicators which allow a better indicators in 9 impact category indicators which allow a better analysis of the analysis of the environmental performance of the system studied. environmental performance of the system studied.

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1.18e-4DALYHuman health criteria pollutants

3.75e+5g C7H7eqHuman health-non cancer

7.61e+1g C6H6eqHuman health-cancer

3.19e+3g 2,4DeqEco-toxicity

2.54e00g NOxeq/mPhoto-oxidant formation

4.53e+2g NeqEutrophication

3.01e+2mol H+eqAcidification

6.06e-3g CFC11eqOzone depletion

1.19e+6g CO2eqClimate change

TotalCategory IndicatorsImpact Categories


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Particle Size DistributionParticle Size Distribution

The following assumptions and models were applied in order to caThe following assumptions and models were applied in order to calculate the lculate the particulates size distribution for these processes:particulates size distribution for these processes:

Natural gas preNatural gas pre--combustion and combustion: Particulates emitted from natural gascombustion and combustion: Particulates emitted from natural gascombustion are smaller than 1 micrometer (USEPA 1998). In the nacombustion are smaller than 1 micrometer (USEPA 1998). In the natural gas tural gas production process, particulates are emitted from compressor engproduction process, particulates are emitted from compressor engines that fire natural ines that fire natural gas (USEPA 1995a); therefore, the same particulates size distribgas (USEPA 1995a); therefore, the same particulates size distribution is used.ution is used.

Diesel preDiesel pre--combustion: Size distribution for industrial boilers firing resicombustion: Size distribution for industrial boilers firing residual oil dual oil (USEPA 1995b) was included on the model. Actually, in the diesel(USEPA 1995b) was included on the model. Actually, in the diesel production process production process there is also particulates emission from the cracking processes;there is also particulates emission from the cracking processes; however, due to lack of however, due to lack of information about the size distribution of this operation, distrinformation about the size distribution of this operation, distribution for industrial ibution for industrial boilers is considered as representative for the whole process.boilers is considered as representative for the whole process.

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Transportation road/rail: Size distribution for diesel vehiclesTransportation road/rail: Size distribution for diesel vehicles (USEPA 2003) was (USEPA 2003) was included on the model.included on the model.

Emission data from processes with small contribution on the partEmission data from processes with small contribution on the particulate inventory per 1 iculate inventory per 1 admtadmt of newsprint were not refined by including size distribution (iof newsprint were not refined by including size distribution (i.e. chemicals .e. chemicals production as well as gasoline, propane and kerosene combustion production as well as gasoline, propane and kerosene combustion and preand pre--combustion).combustion).

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Total Suspended Solids (TSS) CharacterizationTotal Suspended Solids (TSS) Characterization

TSS refers to the amount of fiber in pulp and paper mill effluenTSS refers to the amount of fiber in pulp and paper mill effluents and it is regulated by ts and it is regulated by the Canadian Pulp and Paper Effluent Regulation under the Fisherthe Canadian Pulp and Paper Effluent Regulation under the Fisheries Act ies Act (Environmental Canada 2003).(Environmental Canada 2003).

TSS is not characterized by existent life cycle impact assessmenTSS is not characterized by existent life cycle impact assessment models. However, t models. However, due to its biological nature, it can be assumed that TSS impactsdue to its biological nature, it can be assumed that TSS impacts are already accounted are already accounted by BOD characterization in by BOD characterization in eutrophicationeutrophication impact category.impact category.

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Organic Load CharacterizationOrganic Load Characterization

TRACI TRACI eutrophicationeutrophication model includes separate characterization factors for BOD and model includes separate characterization factors for BOD and COD (i.e. Chemical Oxygen Demand) and recommends characterizing COD (i.e. Chemical Oxygen Demand) and recommends characterizing only COD when only COD when both parameters are available for any unit processes, in order tboth parameters are available for any unit processes, in order to avoid double counting o avoid double counting (Norris 2003).(Norris 2003).

This recommendation has been applied in all the unit processes oThis recommendation has been applied in all the unit processes of the system studied f the system studied but the newsprint mill because the effluent characteristics (i.ebut the newsprint mill because the effluent characteristics (i.e. low biodegradability of . low biodegradability of the organic suspended solids and nutrient content) correspond tothe organic suspended solids and nutrient content) correspond to those for which COD those for which COD is an overestimation of the total environmental oxygen demand (Nis an overestimation of the total environmental oxygen demand (Norris 2003).orris 2003).

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NormalizationNormalization

Two references recommended by ISO (ISO 2001a) were evaluated forTwo references recommended by ISO (ISO 2001a) were evaluated for normalizing the normalizing the characterization results in order to understand better the relatcharacterization results in order to understand better the relative magnitude of the ive magnitude of the impacts from newsprint production. However, the lack of represenimpacts from newsprint production. However, the lack of representative data was a tative data was a constraint for the quantification.constraint for the quantification.

Baseline scenario for the system under studyBaseline scenario for the system under study: The average cradle: The average cradle--toto--gate life cycle gate life cycle of newsprint production in North American context is the best reof newsprint production in North American context is the best reference scenario for ference scenario for this particular case study. However, it is not yet available.this particular case study. However, it is not yet available.

Emissions per capitaEmissions per capita: Data to calculate the normalization factors for this referenc: Data to calculate the normalization factors for this reference is e is available; however, some data gaps were found referred to signifavailable; however, some data gaps were found referred to significant emissions from icant emissions from the system (e.g. BOD) that did not allow calculating a representthe system (e.g. BOD) that did not allow calculating a representative normalization ative normalization profile. profile.

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For the intended applications (i.e. assessment of process modifiFor the intended applications (i.e. assessment of process modifications, demonstration cations, demonstration of continuous improvement and design of minimum impact mill confof continuous improvement and design of minimum impact mill configuration), it is iguration), it is recommended to use the characterization results of this baselinerecommended to use the characterization results of this baseline model as model as normalization reference.normalization reference.

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WeightingWeighting

The question of weighting arises when tradeThe question of weighting arises when trade--offs among impacts categories are offs among impacts categories are involved (i.e. when it cannot be unambiguously decided that one involved (i.e. when it cannot be unambiguously decided that one option is option is environmentally preferable to another for all the impact categorenvironmentally preferable to another for all the impact categories included on the ies included on the study). This optional step is therefore not applied on this desstudy). This optional step is therefore not applied on this descriptive study but it will criptive study but it will be most likely necessary to include in the intended applicationsbe most likely necessary to include in the intended applications. .

Various weighting methods are covered on the literature and it hVarious weighting methods are covered on the literature and it has been showed that as been showed that they may lead to different results. However, they remain a contthey may lead to different results. However, they remain a controversial issue and it roversial issue and it does not exist a single favored weighting method for the use in does not exist a single favored weighting method for the use in LCA (LCA (UdoUdo de de HaesHaes et al et al 2002, 2002, HofstetterHofstetter 1999, 1999, FinnvedenFinnveden 1999). 1999).

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Organic Load CharacterizationOrganic Load Characterization

For the case studies referred to the intended applications, the For the case studies referred to the intended applications, the definition of weighting definition of weighting factors must be transparent; sensitivity analysis should be perffactors must be transparent; sensitivity analysis should be performed in order to ormed in order to illustrate the effects of this choice and the weighted profile sillustrate the effects of this choice and the weighted profile should be considered as an hould be considered as an input to the interpretation phase as opposed to the final answerinput to the interpretation phase as opposed to the final answer, as recommended by , as recommended by ((BengtssonBengtsson et al. 2000).et al. 2000).

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Peer Review ProcessPeer Review Process

A formal internal peer review of this case study is being carrieA formal internal peer review of this case study is being carried out by LCA experts d out by LCA experts from the Interuniversity Reference Centre for the Life Cycle Assfrom the Interuniversity Reference Centre for the Life Cycle Assessment, Interpretation essment, Interpretation and Management of Products, Processes and Services (CIRAIG) fromand Management of Products, Processes and Services (CIRAIG) from the the EcoleEcolePolytechniquePolytechnique de Montreal, following ISO protocol (ISO 1997). This peerde Montreal, following ISO protocol (ISO 1997). This peer--review review includes the methodology for each of the four LCA phases as wellincludes the methodology for each of the four LCA phases as well as the calculation as the calculation procedures, input data and results. procedures, input data and results.

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a.a. Description of the System StudiedDescription of the System Studiedb.b. Goal and Scope definitionGoal and Scope definitionc.c. Life Cycle Inventory (LCI)Life Cycle Inventory (LCI)d.d. Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA)Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA)e.e. Model Interpretation including Parameter Sensitivity AnalysisModel Interpretation including Parameter Sensitivity Analysis



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1.1. Integrated Newsprint MillIntegrated Newsprint Mill1.5. Model Interpretation1.5. Model Interpretation




LifeCycle


• Uncertaintycharacterization• Semi-quantitativeassessment ofparameter uncertainty• Identification of keyinput parameters• Sensitivity analysis• Scenarios developmentand analysis• Conclusions andrecommendations



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DiscussionDiscussion

Twenty six parameters were selected as Twenty six parameters were selected as ““keykey””. Most of the impact categories showed . Most of the impact categories showed significant sensitivity (>10%) on energy consumption at the newssignificant sensitivity (>10%) on energy consumption at the newsprint mill, including print mill, including electricity and natural gas consumption. electricity and natural gas consumption. EutrophicationEutrophication showed significant sensitivity showed significant sensitivity only on Nonly on N--t emissions in the newsprint mill effluent.t emissions in the newsprint mill effluent.

Among background parameters, sensitivities higher than 20% were Among background parameters, sensitivities higher than 20% were found for data on found for data on ozone depleting emissions from DTPA (i.e. ozone depleting emissions from DTPA (i.e. chelantchelant) production, arsenic emission to ) production, arsenic emission to water from soda production, mercury and arsenic emissions to airwater from soda production, mercury and arsenic emissions to air from electricity from electricity production and methane emissions from industrial landfill. The production and methane emissions from industrial landfill. The impact categories impact categories affected for these parameters were global warming, ozone depletiaffected for these parameters were global warming, ozone depletion, on, ecotoxicityecotoxicity and and human toxicity. human toxicity.

For the assessment of methodological choices, the analysis of twFor the assessment of methodological choices, the analysis of two alternative byo alternative by--product allocation approaches in sawmill operations shows a variproduct allocation approaches in sawmill operations shows a variation on the category ation on the category indicator results from 2% to 13% when the total burdens are alloindicator results from 2% to 13% when the total burdens are allocated to the main cated to the main product (i.e. lumber). It was also found that the exclusion of product (i.e. lumber). It was also found that the exclusion of wastepaper collection wastepaper collection from the system does not affect the final results.from the system does not affect the final results.

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Identification of Key ParametersIdentification of Key Parameters

A large number of parameters are introduced in the life cycle inA large number of parameters are introduced in the life cycle inventory phase, ventory phase, depending on the scope and complexity of the system under study.depending on the scope and complexity of the system under study. Therefore, it is Therefore, it is important to systematically select the key parameters on which timportant to systematically select the key parameters on which the interpretation he interpretation analysis will be focused.analysis will be focused.

A broad sensitivity analysis using standard uncertainty estimateA broad sensitivity analysis using standard uncertainty estimates has been s has been recommended (Sakai et al. 2002, recommended (Sakai et al. 2002, HeijungsHeijungs et al. 2001, et al. 2001, HeijungsHeijungs 1996). However, a 1996). However, a disadvantage of using a standard sensitivity range is that paramdisadvantage of using a standard sensitivity range is that parameters with a minor eters with a minor contribution to LCA outcomes but with a large unknown uncertaintcontribution to LCA outcomes but with a large unknown uncertainty range are y range are eliminated from the analysis (eliminated from the analysis (HuijbregtsHuijbregts 1998b). An alternative approach is to identify 1998b). An alternative approach is to identify the key input parameters based on the contribution of input datathe key input parameters based on the contribution of input data to the results and a to the results and a qualitative assessment of the data uncertainty (Maurice et al 20qualitative assessment of the data uncertainty (Maurice et al 2000). 00).

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This latter approach is applied on the baseline model, with someThis latter approach is applied on the baseline model, with some modifications. The modifications. The procedure is performed per impact category and is explained beloprocedure is performed per impact category and is explained below, illustrating it with w, illustrating it with the example of Global Warming (GW).the example of Global Warming (GW).

Step 1:Step 1: Calculate the contribution per substance and do a cut off (e.g.Calculate the contribution per substance and do a cut off (e.g. 1%) in 1%) in order to reduce the analysis only for those substances with majoorder to reduce the analysis only for those substances with major contributions to the r contributions to the indicator result.indicator result.

Ex: From thirteen green house gases (GHG) included on the study,Ex: From thirteen green house gases (GHG) included on the study, 99.2% of the total 99.2% of the total GW indicator result represents the contribution of CO2 (90.6%) aGW indicator result represents the contribution of CO2 (90.6%) and methane (8.6%).nd methane (8.6%).

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Step 2:Step 2: Calculate the contribution of unit processes on the total emissCalculate the contribution of unit processes on the total emission of each ion of each substance selected in step 1.substance selected in step 1.

Ex: The next table shows the contribution of unit processes on tEx: The next table shows the contribution of unit processes on total CO2 emission otal CO2 emission (only contributions higher than 1% are shown, however none cut o(only contributions higher than 1% are shown, however none cut off were applied on ff were applied on this step).this step).

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1.06Transportation by rail

1.54Boiler house – natural gas pre combustion

3.62Transportation by truck

11.57Boiler house – natural gas combustion

79.02Electricity production

Contribution (%)Unit process

Unit processes contribution on total CO2 emission


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Step 3: Step 3: Calculate the contribution of each unit process/emission pair toCalculate the contribution of each unit process/emission pair to the the category indicator result by multiplying the contributions calcucategory indicator result by multiplying the contributions calculated in steps 1 and 2.lated in steps 1 and 2.

Ex: The next table 3 shows the contribution of unit processes onEx: The next table 3 shows the contribution of unit processes on the total GW potential the total GW potential due to CO2 and methane emissions (only contributions higher thandue to CO2 and methane emissions (only contributions higher than 1% are shown, 1% are shown, however none cut off were applied on this step).however none cut off were applied on this step).

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Contribution of unit process/emission pairs on total GW potential

1.39CO2Boiler house – natural gas pre combustion

3.28CO2Transportation by truck

7.51MethaneIndustrial landfill

10.48CO2Boiler house – natural gas combustion

71.59CO2Electricity production

Contribution (%)EmissionUnit process


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Step 4: Step 4: Define Data Quality Indicators (DQI) appropriate to the study inDefine Data Quality Indicators (DQI) appropriate to the study in order to order to evaluate quantitatively the uncertainty of unit process/emissionevaluate quantitatively the uncertainty of unit process/emission pairs.pairs.

Ex: Four DQI were defined for this study: source of data, temporEx: Four DQI were defined for this study: source of data, temporal correlation, al correlation, geographical correlation and technological correlation. The impgeographical correlation and technological correlation. The improved DQI matrix of roved DQI matrix of WeidemaWeidema ((WeidemaWeidema 1998) were used as reference, however we considered that the 1998) were used as reference, however we considered that the reliability of source and completeness indicators were not fullyreliability of source and completeness indicators were not fully suitable for the study. suitable for the study. Reliability indicators involve the evaluation of verification prReliability indicators involve the evaluation of verification processes which are not ocesses which are not informed in the commercial databases used and completeness indicinformed in the commercial databases used and completeness indicator is more ator is more appropriate for data set (i.e. the entire unit process) than forappropriate for data set (i.e. the entire unit process) than for an elementary flow (e.g. an elementary flow (e.g. CO2 from electricity production). CO2 from electricity production).

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Therefore, these two latter indicators were replaced by the sourTherefore, these two latter indicators were replaced by the source of data indicator ce of data indicator and descriptions for the scores 1 to 5 were defined as follows, and descriptions for the scores 1 to 5 were defined as follows, in such a way that in such a way that represent the different data sources used:represent the different data sources used:

Score 1: Average of continuous measurementsScore 1: Average of continuous measurementsScore 2: Average of punctual measurementsScore 2: Average of punctual measurementsScore 3: Calculated from measured dataScore 3: Calculated from measured dataScore 4: Calculated from literature referencesScore 4: Calculated from literature referencesScore 5: Estimated or unknown source Score 5: Estimated or unknown source

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Despite Despite WeidemaWeidema’’ss recommendation on not to aggregate in any way the recommendation on not to aggregate in any way the DQIsDQIs, we , we applied Maurice approach on calculating an average of them in orapplied Maurice approach on calculating an average of them in order to simplify the der to simplify the procedure, taking into account that these are procedure, taking into account that these are ““intermediate indicatorsintermediate indicators”” used to select used to select key parameters for which quantitative uncertainty will be calculkey parameters for which quantitative uncertainty will be calculated afterwards.ated afterwards.

Step 5:Step 5: Define the high and low levels for contribution and uncertaintDefine the high and low levels for contribution and uncertainty in order to y in order to apply the approach proposed by apply the approach proposed by HeijungsHeijungs ((HeijungsHeijungs 1996) illustrated in this figure.1996) illustrated in this figure.Ex: For this study the limit between low and high contribution wEx: For this study the limit between low and high contribution was defined as 10% and as defined as 10% and for low and high uncertainty, a DQI of 2.for low and high uncertainty, a DQI of 2.

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Identification of Key Parameters by Impact CategoriesIdentification of Key Parameters by Impact Categories

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ContributionLow High

Unc

erta

inty

Perhaps a key parameter

Perhaps a key parameter

Not a key parameter

Key parameters

If there are more than one, it is chosen the one with highest

% contribution

All the key parameters are chosen for the

sensitivity analysis

If there are more than one, it is

chosen the one with highest DQI


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Step 6:Step 6: Find the Find the ““key parameterskey parameters”” (quadrant II) by calculating the average DQI of (quadrant II) by calculating the average DQI of all the unit process/emission pairs with a contribution to the iall the unit process/emission pairs with a contribution to the impact indicator result mpact indicator result higher than 10% and selecting those for which the DQI is higher higher than 10% and selecting those for which the DQI is higher than 2.than 2.

Ex: Average Ex: Average DQIsDQIs were calculated for CO2 emissions from electricity production were calculated for CO2 emissions from electricity production (71.6% contribution to GW) and from natural gas combustion at th(71.6% contribution to GW) and from natural gas combustion at the boiler house e boiler house (10.5% contribution to GW). The results are 1.5 and 2.3 respect(10.5% contribution to GW). The results are 1.5 and 2.3 respectively. Therefore CO2 ively. Therefore CO2 emission from natural gas combustion to produce steam at the boiemission from natural gas combustion to produce steam at the boiler house was ler house was selected as selected as ““key parameterkey parameter””..

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Step 7:Step 7: Select representative Select representative ““perhaps key parametersperhaps key parameters”” from quadrant I and III. from quadrant I and III. This step is important to perform because important parameters cThis step is important to perform because important parameters can be located in an be located in these quadrants. these quadrants. In quadrant I we can find process parameters for which data are In quadrant I we can find process parameters for which data are obtained on site and obtained on site and therefore have good data quality and, at the same time, with higtherefore have good data quality and, at the same time, with high contribution on the h contribution on the total category indicator results since they are closer to the futotal category indicator results since they are closer to the functional unit in the nctional unit in the product chain. Opportunities to improve the environmental perfoproduct chain. Opportunities to improve the environmental performance can be rmance can be missed by not considering at all these parameters based on theirmissed by not considering at all these parameters based on their good data quality.good data quality.

On the other hand, in quadrant III we can find background parameOn the other hand, in quadrant III we can find background parameters (e.g. emissions ters (e.g. emissions from chemicals production) for which data are usually obtained ffrom chemicals production) for which data are usually obtained from commercial rom commercial databases and therefore with higher uncertainty than the above pdatabases and therefore with higher uncertainty than the above parameters, but also arameters, but also with less contribution to the category indicator results. Opporwith less contribution to the category indicator results. Opportunities to improve data tunities to improve data quality can be missed by not considering at all these parametersquality can be missed by not considering at all these parameters based on their low based on their low contribution. contribution.

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We propose the selection of We propose the selection of ““perhaps key parametersperhaps key parameters”” based on their contribution based on their contribution which is a quantitative indicator more certain than the DQI. which is a quantitative indicator more certain than the DQI. DQIsDQIs can be used as can be used as secondary criteria for the selection, for instance when equal cosecondary criteria for the selection, for instance when equal contributions are found for ntributions are found for two different unit process/emission pair, the one with higher DQtwo different unit process/emission pair, the one with higher DQI is selected. I is selected.

Ex: CO2 emission from electricity production (71.7% contributionEx: CO2 emission from electricity production (71.7% contribution and 1.5 DQI) is and 1.5 DQI) is selected from quadrant I. Methane emission from industrial landfselected from quadrant I. Methane emission from industrial landfill (7.4% contribution ill (7.4% contribution and 3.5 DQI) is selected from quadrant III.and 3.5 DQI) is selected from quadrant III.

Step 8:Step 8: For all the selected unit process/emission pairs, identify the For all the selected unit process/emission pairs, identify the elementary elementary and intermediate flows that affect them. These parameters are aand intermediate flows that affect them. These parameters are analyzed in the next nalyzed in the next step of the interpretation procedure.step of the interpretation procedure.

Ex: The next table 4 shows the list of the selected unit processEx: The next table 4 shows the list of the selected unit process/emission pairs with the /emission pairs with the related elementary and intermediate flows (i.e. key parameters) related elementary and intermediate flows (i.e. key parameters) as well as their units. as well as their units.

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kg/kgMethane from landfillElementary

kg/admtProcess wastes to landfill

IntermediateIndustrial landfill/methane

kg/m3CO2 from natural gas combustion

Elementary

m3/admtNatural gas consumption

IntermediateBH-natural gas combustion/CO2

kg/kWhCO2 from electricity production

Elementary

kWh/admtElectricity consumption

IntermediateElectricity production/CO2

UnitKey ParameterType of FlowUnit process/emission

Selected key parameters for the sensitivity analysis of GW potential results


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Definition of Uncertainty Ranges for Selected Key ParametersDefinition of Uncertainty Ranges for Selected Key Parameters

Uncertainty ranges for the selected key parameters were calculatUncertainty ranges for the selected key parameters were calculated in order to perform ed in order to perform the sensitivity analyses. The guidelines proposed by Maurice (Mthe sensitivity analyses. The guidelines proposed by Maurice (Maurice et al. 2000) aurice et al. 2000) were considered for the calculation or estimation of the uncertawere considered for the calculation or estimation of the uncertainty ranges, as follows:inty ranges, as follows:

For primary data in woodlands, sawmill and newsprint mill, the For primary data in woodlands, sawmill and newsprint mill, the minimum and minimum and maximum values of monthly statistics for the year 2001 defined tmaximum values of monthly statistics for the year 2001 defined the uncertainty range.he uncertainty range.

For primary data from electricity production, where only averagFor primary data from electricity production, where only averages were available es were available from the production site, the assumption of from the production site, the assumption of ±±20% for continuous measurements and 20% for continuous measurements and ±±50% for punctual measurements was applied based on (50% for punctual measurements was applied based on (HanssenHanssen et al. 1996).et al. 1996).

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For secondary data from Franklin database: A percentage of variFor secondary data from Franklin database: A percentage of variation was applied ation was applied according to information from the database developers.according to information from the database developers.

For secondary data from other databases where no information onFor secondary data from other databases where no information on uncertainty was uncertainty was available, the uncertainty range was based on comparison of simiavailable, the uncertainty range was based on comparison of similar processes from lar processes from different databases.different databases.

For secondary data where no information on similar processes frFor secondary data where no information on similar processes from other databases om other databases was available, the uncertainty range was based on the large intewas available, the uncertainty range was based on the large intervals proposed by rvals proposed by FinnvedenFinnveden ((FinnvedenFinnveden et al. 1998).et al. 1998).

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Sensitivity Analysis on Key Foreground and Background ParametersSensitivity Analysis on Key Foreground and Background Parameters

The sensitivity analysis technique was selected from a study wheThe sensitivity analysis technique was selected from a study where fourteen methods re fourteen methods were compared in terms of the required calculation effort, the swere compared in terms of the required calculation effort, the sensitivity ranking of ensitivity ranking of parameter and the relative method performance (Hamby 1995). Theparameter and the relative method performance (Hamby 1995). The study concludes study concludes that the Sensitivity Index (SI) is that the Sensitivity Index (SI) is ““the easiest and most reliable method that can be the easiest and most reliable method that can be performed without detailed knowledge of the parameter distributiperformed without detailed knowledge of the parameter distributionon””..The sensitivity index is a oneThe sensitivity index is a one--atat--aa--time method where one parameter is varied at a time method where one parameter is varied at a time from its minimum to its maximum value (uncertainty range) wtime from its minimum to its maximum value (uncertainty range) while the others are hile the others are holding fixed and the resulting output percent difference is calholding fixed and the resulting output percent difference is calculated and expressed as culated and expressed as SI.SI.

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Sensitivity Indexes were calculated for the selected key parametSensitivity Indexes were calculated for the selected key parameters and the results are ers and the results are analyzed separately for the foreground and background parametersanalyzed separately for the foreground and background parameters, in order to , in order to identify improvement opportunities on environmental performance identify improvement opportunities on environmental performance and data quality, and data quality, respectively.respectively.

The next two figures show the results for foreground and backgroThe next two figures show the results for foreground and background parameters. und parameters. Twenty six key parameters were analyzed in total, but only thoseTwenty six key parameters were analyzed in total, but only those with SI higher than with SI higher than 10% are shown. It can be observed that the background parameter10% are shown. It can be observed that the background parameters have in general s have in general higher sensitivity than the foreground parameters due to their hhigher sensitivity than the foreground parameters due to their higher uncertainty.igher uncertainty.

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Global Eutrophication Acidification Photochemical Ecotoxicity Human Health Human Health Human HealthWarming Smog Cancer Non Cancer Particles

28

26

24

22

20

18

16

14

12

10

Impact CategoriesElectricity consumption Natural gas consumption N-t from newsmill effluent Diesel consumption

SI (%

)

Sensitivity of Category Indicators Results on Key Mill Process Parameters

Results of Sensitivity Analysis on Foreground Parameters


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From this figure it can be concluded that the mill efforts to imFrom this figure it can be concluded that the mill efforts to improve the life cycle prove the life cycle environmental performance of the newsprint production should be environmental performance of the newsprint production should be focus on the energy focus on the energy issues, especially the consumption of electricity and natural gaissues, especially the consumption of electricity and natural gas to produce steam that s to produce steam that have an important sensitivity in most of the impact categories. have an important sensitivity in most of the impact categories. Also, the Also, the eutrophicationeutrophication category results can be significantly reduced by taking actionscategory results can be significantly reduced by taking actions to reduce to reduce NN--t emissions from the newsprint mill effluents.t emissions from the newsprint mill effluents.

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Results of Sensitivity Analysis on Background Parameters

Global Ozone Depletion Ecotoxicity Human Health Human HealthWarming Cancer Non Cancer

80

70

60

50

40

30

20

CH4 from industrial landfill CO2 from electricity prod. Hg from elect. prod. As from elect. Prod.

Halon-1301 fromDTPAprod. CFC-114 from DTPA prod. As-w from NaOH prod.

SI (%

)

Sensitivity of Category Indicators Results on Key Mill Background Parameters

Impact Category


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From this figure it can be concluded that efforts to improve theFrom this figure it can be concluded that efforts to improve the data quality should be data quality should be focus on the ozone depleting emissions from DTPA (i.e. focus on the ozone depleting emissions from DTPA (i.e. chelantchelant) production, arsenic ) production, arsenic emission to water from soda production, mercury and arsenic emisemission to water from soda production, mercury and arsenic emissions to air from sions to air from electricity production and methane emissions from industrial lanelectricity production and methane emissions from industrial landfill. The actions dfill. The actions should be oriented first to improve the estimated uncertainty rashould be oriented first to improve the estimated uncertainty ranges and then evaluate nges and then evaluate by a complementary sensitivity analysis if better production datby a complementary sensitivity analysis if better production data quality is required.a quality is required.

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Assessment of Uncertainties due to Methodological ChoicesAssessment of Uncertainties due to Methodological Choices

Examples of methodological choices that introduce uncertainty onExamples of methodological choices that introduce uncertainty on LCA models are: the LCA models are: the selection of functional unit, system boundaries, allocation ruleselection of functional unit, system boundaries, allocation rules, the choice of using s, the choice of using average data or average technology and selection of characterizaaverage data or average technology and selection of characterization methods tion methods ((BjorklundBjorklund 2002). In order to reduce this type of uncertainty, it has bee2002). In order to reduce this type of uncertainty, it has been n recommended to use standardized procedures (i.e. ISO 14040 familrecommended to use standardized procedures (i.e. ISO 14040 family), as well as to y), as well as to perform peer review processes when choices are judged (perform peer review processes when choices are judged (HuijbregtsHuijbregts 1998a).1998a).

In the development of the baseline model, besides the applicatioIn the development of the baseline model, besides the application of the recommended n of the recommended measures to reduce the uncertainty due to choices, the effects omeasures to reduce the uncertainty due to choices, the effects of two methodological f two methodological choices, for which different approaches are discussed among pracchoices, for which different approaches are discussed among practitioners, were titioners, were analyzed.analyzed.

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By Product Allocation in SawmillBy Product Allocation in Sawmill

The approaches presented previously were modeled and the impact The approaches presented previously were modeled and the impact category results category results are compared with those from the baseline model in the next figuare compared with those from the baseline model in the next figure. The profiles are re. The profiles are normalized against the baseline model results.normalized against the baseline model results.

Alternative Approach 1Alternative Approach 1: The environmental burdens are allocated only to lumber and : The environmental burdens are allocated only to lumber and chips.chips.

Alternative Approach 2Alternative Approach 2: The environmental burdens are allocated only to lumber.: The environmental burdens are allocated only to lumber.

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Acidification Ecotoxicity Eutrophication Global Human Health Human Health Human Health Ozone PhotoquemicalWarming Cancer Particles Non Cancer Depletion Smog

1.1

1.0

0.9

0.8

0.7

Impact CategoriesAlternative Approach 1 Alternative Approach 2

Sensitivity Analysis on Alternative Allocation Approaches

Nor

mal

ized

Valu

e

Results of Sensitivity Analysis on Alternative Allocation Approaches for Sawmill Operations


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The results show that whether or not we allocate burdens to hog The results show that whether or not we allocate burdens to hog fuel, the results fuel, the results remain the same. But when environmental burdens are exclusively remain the same. But when environmental burdens are exclusively allocated to lumber, allocated to lumber, the characterization results differ from the baseline model resuthe characterization results differ from the baseline model results in 2% to 13%, with lts in 2% to 13%, with higher values for human health particles and photochemical smog higher values for human health particles and photochemical smog where transportation where transportation has a significant contribution and because diesel consumption fohas a significant contribution and because diesel consumption for log transportation r log transportation and sawmill operations represent around 75% of the total consumpand sawmill operations represent around 75% of the total consumption for tion for transportation by truck.transportation by truck.

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Exclusion of Wastepaper CollectionExclusion of Wastepaper Collection

During the scope definition, transportation of wastepaper from cDuring the scope definition, transportation of wastepaper from curbsides to material urbsides to material recovery facilities in the cities was considered negligible whenrecovery facilities in the cities was considered negligible when comparing with other comparing with other transportation activities (i.e. log transportation, wastepaper ttransportation activities (i.e. log transportation, wastepaper transportation from ransportation from material recovery facilities to the mill, etc.) and therefore exmaterial recovery facilities to the mill, etc.) and therefore excluded from the system.cluded from the system.

On the interpretation phase this assumption was verified by usinOn the interpretation phase this assumption was verified by using the municipal waste g the municipal waste truck model from IVAM database, which is modeled by hour and distruck model from IVAM database, which is modeled by hour and distance is not tance is not relevant; and average data on rate of old newspaper collection drelevant; and average data on rate of old newspaper collection during the year 1998 in uring the year 1998 in the province of Ontario. The results show that the contributionthe province of Ontario. The results show that the contribution of wastepaper of wastepaper collection is negligible for all the impact categories (<<1%), bcollection is negligible for all the impact categories (<<1%), being the highest one eing the highest one 0.00435% for human health particles.0.00435% for human health particles.

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2.2. Assessment of Opportunities to Improve the Environmental PerformAssessment of Opportunities to Improve the Environmental Performance of ance of Newsprint Production Using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)Newsprint Production Using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)



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2.2. Integrated Newsprint Mill : Assessment of Integrated Newsprint Mill : Assessment of Opportunities for Environmental Opportunities for Environmental ImprovementImprovement

This section shows the assessment of improvement opportunities, This section shows the assessment of improvement opportunities, dividing the dividing the proposed alternatives in those related to the energy consumptionproposed alternatives in those related to the energy consumption and those related and those related with the effluent emissions. In the former group, we analyze thwith the effluent emissions. In the former group, we analyze the increase of DIP e increase of DIP production and the implementation of coproduction and the implementation of co--generation systems; the results show generation systems; the results show important benefits for most of the impact categories (e.g. 20important benefits for most of the impact categories (e.g. 20--40% reduction in Global 40% reduction in Global Warming Potential), except for acidification, photochemical smogWarming Potential), except for acidification, photochemical smog and human health and human health particles due to the increase of natural gas consumption per 1 particles due to the increase of natural gas consumption per 1 admtadmt. .

In the latter group, we analyze tertiary treatment by coagulatioIn the latter group, we analyze tertiary treatment by coagulation/flocculation as well as n/flocculation as well as zero effluent by membrane filtration; these technologies show sizero effluent by membrane filtration; these technologies show significant improvement gnificant improvement for for eutrophicationeutrophication potential (i.e. 50potential (i.e. 50--80% reduction), with higher benefits from the 80% reduction), with higher benefits from the membrane technology which completely eliminates the contributionmembrane technology which completely eliminates the contribution from newsprint mill from newsprint mill effluent to effluent to eutrophicationeutrophication, optimizes water resource use and has available alternatives , optimizes water resource use and has available alternatives to sludge to sludge landfillinglandfilling..


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In this In this publicationpublication we analyze and interpret systematically the baseline model resuwe analyze and interpret systematically the baseline model results in lts in order to identify the process and nonorder to identify the process and non--process parameters with significant influence on process parameters with significant influence on the impacts of whole chain. Finally, we identify and assess thethe impacts of whole chain. Finally, we identify and assess the potential improvement potential improvement on the life cycle environmental performance from different mill on the life cycle environmental performance from different mill configurations.configurations.


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Key ParametersKey Parameters

In this section, the attention is focused on the key mill procesIn this section, the attention is focused on the key mill process or foreground s or foreground parameters, because they are the starting point for the definitiparameters, because they are the starting point for the definition and assessment of on and assessment of opportunities to improve the life cycle environmental performancopportunities to improve the life cycle environmental performance. The next figure e. The next figure shows the results of the sensitivity analysis for these parameteshows the results of the sensitivity analysis for these parameters.rs.

Note: SI = Sensitivity Index, defined as:Note: SI = Sensitivity Index, defined as:

Where Where DminDmin and and DmaxDmax represent respectively the minimum and maximum output represent respectively the minimum and maximum output values resulting from varying the input over its uncertainty ranvalues resulting from varying the input over its uncertainty range (Hamby 1994).ge (Hamby 1994).

max

minmax

DDDSI −=


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Global Eutrophication Acidification Photochemical Ecotoxicity Human Health Human Health Human HealthWarming Smog Cancer Non Cancer Particles

Electricity consumption Natural gas consumption N-t from news mill effluent Diesel consumption

Impact Categories

28

26

24

22

20

18

16

14

12

10

SI

(%)

Results of sensitivity analysis on foreground parameters


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From the previous figure it can be concluded that the mill opporFrom the previous figure it can be concluded that the mill opportunities to improve the tunities to improve the life cycle environmental performance of the newsprint productionlife cycle environmental performance of the newsprint production are in the reduction are in the reduction of energy use, especially of electricity and natural gas which hof energy use, especially of electricity and natural gas which have an important ave an important sensitivity in most of the impact categories. On the other handsensitivity in most of the impact categories. On the other hand, potential , potential eutrophicationeutrophication can be significantly reduced by reducing Ncan be significantly reduced by reducing N--t emissions from the t emissions from the newsprint mill effluent.newsprint mill effluent.


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Scenario AnalysisScenario Analysis

Energy Oriented ScenariosEnergy Oriented Scenarios

They are focused on reducing purchased electricity and natural gThey are focused on reducing purchased electricity and natural gas consumption. We as consumption. We consider the following strategies:consider the following strategies:

Reduce the energy consumption of the mill by increasing the DIPReduce the energy consumption of the mill by increasing the DIP production that is production that is less energy intensive than the TMP process.less energy intensive than the TMP process.

Reduce the amount of energy purchased from the grid by coReduce the amount of energy purchased from the grid by co--generating steam and generating steam and electricity, preferably from biomass.electricity, preferably from biomass.

A combination of these two strategies.A combination of these two strategies.

Based on these strategies, we developed three alternative mill cBased on these strategies, we developed three alternative mill configurations onfigurations presented in the next table.presented in the next table.


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103188%Sludges

36243244%Hog Fuel

54735048%Natural Gas

Breakdown of energy sources to produce steam

10010022%Co-generated on site

009898%Purchased from the grid

Electricity Breakdown

21361216GJ/admt

Energy Consumption (electricity + steam)

1002010020%DIP content

100% CE +100% DIP

100% CE100% DIPBaselineUnitsParameter

Alternative mill configurations to reduce energy consumption and its consequent impacts


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Energy Oriented ScenariosEnergy Oriented Scenarios

The increase of DIP production (100% DIP) results in a consumptiThe increase of DIP production (100% DIP) results in a consumption of around one on of around one half of the electricity required in the baseline model; and at thalf of the electricity required in the baseline model; and at the same time, an increase he same time, an increase of 35% on the steam produced by the boiler house in order to repof 35% on the steam produced by the boiler house in order to replace the steam lace the steam recovered from the TMP process in the baseline model. As a consrecovered from the TMP process in the baseline model. As a consequence, there is an equence, there is an overall decrease in the energy consumption from the mill. The moverall decrease in the energy consumption from the mill. The main assumptions we ain assumptions we made for the inventory analysis of this configuration are:made for the inventory analysis of this configuration are:

The additional amount of ONP and GGS required is transported frThe additional amount of ONP and GGS required is transported from the same om the same places as the baseline model. Furthermore, we consider a creditplaces as the baseline model. Furthermore, we consider a credit for recycling this for recycling this amount of wastepaper which otherwise would be amount of wastepaper which otherwise would be landfilledlandfilled..

The entire amount of DIP The entire amount of DIP sludgessludges can be dewatered and burnt in the boiler house.can be dewatered and burnt in the boiler house.The additional energy required in the boiler house to produce sThe additional energy required in the boiler house to produce steam is covered by team is covered by

natural gas.natural gas.


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As a consequence of the last assumption, we can observe in the pAs a consequence of the last assumption, we can observe in the previous table that revious table that the breakdown of natural gas and the breakdown of natural gas and sludgessludges increase comparing to the baseline model. increase comparing to the baseline model. Natural gas consumption increases around 40% and the amount of Natural gas consumption increases around 40% and the amount of sludgessludges used as used as energy source is twice more than in the baseline model.energy source is twice more than in the baseline model.

In the 100% CE configuration, we consider that all the electriciIn the 100% CE configuration, we consider that all the electricity consumed by the mill ty consumed by the mill is cois co--generated on site. We do not include any energy reduction progrgenerated on site. We do not include any energy reduction program, but we am, but we change the energy source: instead of buying the electricity fromchange the energy source: instead of buying the electricity from the grid, we generate the grid, we generate it from steam. However, the required amount of steam for this cit from steam. However, the required amount of steam for this configuration is around onfiguration is around twice more than for the baseline model. twice more than for the baseline model.


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Therefore, the total amount of energy required at the mill also Therefore, the total amount of energy required at the mill also increases. To produce increases. To produce this additional steam entirely from biomass is not feasible due this additional steam entirely from biomass is not feasible due to problems on hog fuel to problems on hog fuel availability where the system is located. Therefore, we assume availability where the system is located. Therefore, we assume that we cannot that we cannot increase the current hog fuel consumption more than 100% and thaincrease the current hog fuel consumption more than 100% and that the rest energy t the rest energy needs are covered by natural gas. Observe the variations on theneeds are covered by natural gas. Observe the variations on the breakdown of these breakdown of these energy sources in the same table. As a result, natural gas consenergy sources in the same table. As a result, natural gas consumption for this umption for this configuration is around 4 times more than the consumption for thconfiguration is around 4 times more than the consumption for the baseline model. e baseline model.

Electricity consumption is reduced by shutting down TMP, but theElectricity consumption is reduced by shutting down TMP, but the steam requirements steam requirements increase to replace the steam from TMP and to provide the energyincrease to replace the steam from TMP and to provide the energy required to corequired to co--generate 100% of the electricity needs. As a consequence, the tgenerate 100% of the electricity needs. As a consequence, the total energy otal energy requirements increase around 30%. For the additional amount of requirements increase around 30%. For the additional amount of wastepaper required wastepaper required and sludge generated, we made the same assumptions as for 100% Dand sludge generated, we made the same assumptions as for 100% DIP configuration. IP configuration. For the additional hog fuel required, we made the same assumptioFor the additional hog fuel required, we made the same assumption as for 100% CE. n as for 100% CE. Since there is more sludge that can be used as energy source andSince there is more sludge that can be used as energy source and there is less there is less electricity required at the mill, natural gas consumption increaelectricity required at the mill, natural gas consumption increases in less than twice ses in less than twice compared to the baseline model.compared to the baseline model.


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Using LCA we can identify the benefits and impacts of going fromUsing LCA we can identify the benefits and impacts of going from the baseline model the baseline model to alternative configurations as well as identify the tradeto alternative configurations as well as identify the trade--offs and the origins of the offs and the origins of the impacts. For instance, the next figure shows a comparison of thimpacts. For instance, the next figure shows a comparison of the Global Warming e Global Warming Potential (GWP) for the baseline model and the designed energyPotential (GWP) for the baseline model and the designed energy--oriented scenarios. oriented scenarios. All the configurations involve improvements for this performanceAll the configurations involve improvements for this performance indicator, with indicator, with reductions from 20 to 40%, despite of the fact that the overall reductions from 20 to 40%, despite of the fact that the overall energy consumption energy consumption increases for the three scenarios. This result can be explainedincreases for the three scenarios. This result can be explained based on the energy based on the energy source: we are replacing electricity sourced on coal at 33% withsource: we are replacing electricity sourced on coal at 33% with electricity generated electricity generated from natural gas and biomass (CO2 neutral). from natural gas and biomass (CO2 neutral).


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1400

1200

1000

800

600

400

200

0Baseline 100%CE 100%DIP 100%CE+

100%DIP

Electricity production Natural gas combustion Chemicals production

Fuels production Transportation Landfill

Scenario

Kg C

O2eq

/ a

dm

t

GWP of alternative mill configurations


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Regarding the process contributions, we observe a reduction on tRegarding the process contributions, we observe a reduction on the CO2eq emitted he CO2eq emitted from electricity production along with an increase from the natufrom electricity production along with an increase from the natural gas combustion at ral gas combustion at the boiler house, in such a way that the combined impact to covethe boiler house, in such a way that the combined impact to cover the energy mill r the energy mill needs is reduced in 30% for the scenario 100% CE, 50% for the scneeds is reduced in 30% for the scenario 100% CE, 50% for the scenario 100% DIP enario 100% DIP and 60% for the combined scenario. However, as natural gas consand 60% for the combined scenario. However, as natural gas consumption increases, umption increases, the prethe pre--combustion effects (i.e. fuels production) are more significant;combustion effects (i.e. fuels production) are more significant; see, for see, for example, the increase of the pointy area for the scenario 100%CEexample, the increase of the pointy area for the scenario 100%CE. We can also . We can also observe the increase of the contribution from chemicals productiobserve the increase of the contribution from chemicals production when more DIP is on when more DIP is produced. produced.

Contributions from landfill and transportation remain almost conContributions from landfill and transportation remain almost constant. In the case of stant. In the case of landfill, we have a balance between the increase of process wastlandfill, we have a balance between the increase of process wastes from DIP plus the es from DIP plus the amount of ashes from steam production and the credit for recycliamount of ashes from steam production and the credit for recycling more wastepaper ng more wastepaper which otherwise would be which otherwise would be landfilledlandfilled. In the case of transportation, the balance is . In the case of transportation, the balance is between more wastepaper transportation and the avoidance of tranbetween more wastepaper transportation and the avoidance of transportation related sportation related to woodlands and sawmills operations.to woodlands and sawmills operations.


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The alternative mill configurations have potential benefits to iThe alternative mill configurations have potential benefits to improve the mprove the environmental performance on the impact categories that have a senvironmental performance on the impact categories that have a significant sensitivity ignificant sensitivity on electricity consumption (see figure *). However, for the imon electricity consumption (see figure *). However, for the impact categories which pact categories which are more sensitive to natural gas consumption (i.e. acidificatioare more sensitive to natural gas consumption (i.e. acidification, photochemical smog n, photochemical smog and human health particles), the category indicator results incrand human health particles), the category indicator results increase as a consequence ease as a consequence of the increase on natural gas consumption. For instance, in thof the increase on natural gas consumption. For instance, in the next figure we e next figure we observe that despite of the fact that the contribution from elecobserve that despite of the fact that the contribution from electricity production is tricity production is reduced or eliminated, the contributions from biomass and naturareduced or eliminated, the contributions from biomass and natural gas combustion and l gas combustion and especially from the natural gas production increase importantly,especially from the natural gas production increase importantly, resulting in a net resulting in a net increase of the photochemical smog indicator.increase of the photochemical smog indicator.


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6

5

4

3

2

1

0

g N

O2 /

adm

t

Baseline 100%CE 100%DIP 100%CE+100%DIP

Electricity production Natural gas combustion Chemicals production

Fuels production Transportation Biomass combustion

Scenario

Photochemical smog potential of alternative mill configurations


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Another point to highlight is that since these scenarios are maiAnother point to highlight is that since these scenarios are mainly oriented towards nly oriented towards reducing the purchased electricity consumption, the consequent breducing the purchased electricity consumption, the consequent benefits strongly enefits strongly depend on the atdepend on the at--source power mix, and therefore on the mill location. In order source power mix, and therefore on the mill location. In order to to understand better the significance of this nonunderstand better the significance of this non--process parameter, we took as reference process parameter, we took as reference the average power mix of three different Canadian provinces: Ontthe average power mix of three different Canadian provinces: Ontario, Quebec and ario, Quebec and Alberta. The next table presents the power mix for each provincAlberta. The next table presents the power mix for each province as well as the e as well as the correspondent GWP. Note that this latter indicator was calculatcorrespondent GWP. Note that this latter indicator was calculated using LCA databases ed using LCA databases for comparative purposes and it does not represent real emissionfor comparative purposes and it does not represent real emissions (e.g. the model for s (e.g. the model for hydropower considers zero emissions).hydropower considers zero emissions).

1.85e+49541Quebec

3.87e+5283933Ontario

8.59e+59091Alberta

GWP(gCO2/MWh)

Hydro (%)

Nuclear(%)

Fossil (%)

Province

Power mixes and GWP for three Canadian provinces


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Then, we substituted the actual electricity production model forThen, we substituted the actual electricity production model for these three different these three different models and calculated the GWP of the entire system (i.e. per 1 models and calculated the GWP of the entire system (i.e. per 1 admtadmt) and the process ) and the process contributions, the results are shown in the next figure. We obscontributions, the results are shown in the next figure. We observe that the mill erve that the mill location dramatically influences the category indicator results location dramatically influences the category indicator results and consequently the and consequently the sensitivity and scenario analysis results.sensitivity and scenario analysis results.


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3000

2500

2000

1500

1000

500

0

ton

CO

2eq

/ ad

mt

Electricity production Natural gas combustion Transportation Industrial landfill

Ontario Quebec Alberta

GWP per 1 admt of newsprint for three different mill locations


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Effluent Oriented ScenariosEffluent Oriented Scenarios

These scenarios are focused on reducing the nutrient emissions fThese scenarios are focused on reducing the nutrient emissions from the newsprint rom the newsprint mill. We consider the following strategies:mill. We consider the following strategies:

Tertiary treatment by coagulation/flocculationTertiary treatment by coagulation/flocculationZero effluent by membrane filtrationZero effluent by membrane filtration

Based on these strategies, we analyzed 3 alternative scenarios:Based on these strategies, we analyzed 3 alternative scenarios:

Tertiary treatment of the current amount of effluents by coagulTertiary treatment of the current amount of effluents by coagulation/flocculation.ation/flocculation.Implementation of water conservation programs in order to reducImplementation of water conservation programs in order to reduce the amount of e the amount of

effluents to treat; and tertiary treatment of the reduced amounteffluents to treat; and tertiary treatment of the reduced amount of effluents by of effluents by coagulation/flocculation.coagulation/flocculation.

Implementation of a membrane filtration technology after the seImplementation of a membrane filtration technology after the secondary treatment condary treatment in order to reuse the effluent as fresh water in the process. in order to reuse the effluent as fresh water in the process.


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The two first scenarios were developed for the newsprint mill byThe two first scenarios were developed for the newsprint mill by a consultant company a consultant company as alternatives to achieve their environmental targets set for tas alternatives to achieve their environmental targets set for the year 2005. They are he year 2005. They are inspired on a tertiary treatment plant by dissolved air flotatioinspired on a tertiary treatment plant by dissolved air flotation aided by chemical n aided by chemical coagulation and flocculation with alum and polymer, applied in acoagulation and flocculation with alum and polymer, applied in a TMPTMP--DIP newsprint DIP newsprint mill in Sweden in order to reduce COD and phosphorous dischargesmill in Sweden in order to reduce COD and phosphorous discharges ((ThorenThoren et al. et al. 1997). However, a constraint of this technology is that the pre1997). However, a constraint of this technology is that the precipitation of TSS and cipitation of TSS and nutrients with inorganic chemicals produces a considerable quantnutrients with inorganic chemicals produces a considerable quantity of sludge that is ity of sludge that is difficult to dewater and therefore must be difficult to dewater and therefore must be landfilledlandfilled (European Commission 2001). We (European Commission 2001). We did not quantify the amount of sludge generated for these scenardid not quantify the amount of sludge generated for these scenarios, because reliable ios, because reliable data was not available.data was not available.


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The next table presents the main characteristics of the two firsThe next table presents the main characteristics of the two first scenarios in terms of t scenarios in terms of quantity and quality of the discharged effluents. quantity and quality of the discharged effluents.

60.00100.00183.00g/admtN-t

2.804.0065.30g/admtPO4-P

0.160.230.39kg/admtBOD

25.0045.4045.40m3/admtFlow

WC+TTTTBaselineUnitsParameter

Effluent characteristics for tertiary treatment scenarios


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For the zero effluent scenario, we selected the membrane technolFor the zero effluent scenario, we selected the membrane technology that depending ogy that depending on the applicable membrane cuton the applicable membrane cut--off size and the filtering pressure, can theoretically off size and the filtering pressure, can theoretically remove almost 100% of the organic material, producing a filtrateremove almost 100% of the organic material, producing a filtrate with sufficient quality with sufficient quality to replace most of the fresh water used in the process. The to replace most of the fresh water used in the process. The sludgessludges generated can be generated can be sent to biological treatment or may require further concentratiosent to biological treatment or may require further concentration into a solid fuel for n into a solid fuel for disposal by incineration (IPPC 2001). The amount of disposal by incineration (IPPC 2001). The amount of sludgessludges generated for this generated for this scenario has neither been quantified. scenario has neither been quantified.

The next figure shows the comparative results for The next figure shows the comparative results for eutrophicationeutrophication impact category impact category which is the more sensitive to the nutrient emissions from the nwhich is the more sensitive to the nutrient emissions from the newsprint mill.ewsprint mill.


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Baseline TT WC+TT Zero Effluent

Newsprint production Electricity production Biomass combustion Chemicals & fuels production Industrial landfill

Scenarios

500

450

400

350

300

250

200

150

100

50

0

g N

eq /

adm

t

Eutrophication potential for alternative effluent scenarios


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We observe that the contribution from the newsprint mill effluenWe observe that the contribution from the newsprint mill effluent represents around t represents around 80% of the 80% of the eutrophicationeutrophication potential for the baseline model. With the implementation potential for the baseline model. With the implementation of tertiary treatment, the of tertiary treatment, the eutrophicationeutrophication potential can decrease in 50 to 60% and with potential can decrease in 50 to 60% and with the zero effluent technology, in 80% by the elimination of the nthe zero effluent technology, in 80% by the elimination of the newsprint mill ewsprint mill contribution.contribution.

Note that the sludge management does not affect the Note that the sludge management does not affect the eutrophicationeutrophication results, but it can results, but it can affect other impact categories. For instance: if the alum sludgaffect other impact categories. For instance: if the alum sludge is e is lanfilledlanfilled, the Global , the Global Warming indicator increases. This factor has to be taken into aWarming indicator increases. This factor has to be taken into account for future ccount for future scenario analyses, when more reliable data are available.scenario analyses, when more reliable data are available.

Additional Scenario AnalysisAdditional Scenario Analysis

We performed an additional scenario analysis in order to respondWe performed an additional scenario analysis in order to respond to a question often to a question often arose during presentations on this research project: what is morarose during presentations on this research project: what is more environmental e environmental friendly, to recycle wastepaper or to incinerate it in the city friendly, to recycle wastepaper or to incinerate it in the city and recover electricity?. and recover electricity?. The main concern associated with this question was the impact frThe main concern associated with this question was the impact from wastepaper om wastepaper transportation.transportation.


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In order to assess these alternatives, we firstly included in thIn order to assess these alternatives, we firstly included in the baseline model the e baseline model the wastepaper transportation from curbsides to material recovery fawastepaper transportation from curbsides to material recovery facilities, initially cilities, initially excluded from the system, and we calculated the contribution of excluded from the system, and we calculated the contribution of this activity to the this activity to the category indicators. The results show that the contribution in category indicators. The results show that the contribution in all impact categories is all impact categories is negligible (<<1%).negligible (<<1%).

Then, we developed and compared the scenarios described in this Then, we developed and compared the scenarios described in this table.table.

5522%Co-generated

459898%Purchased from the grid

Electricity Breakdown

2010020%DIP content

55% EW100% DIPBaselineUnitsParameter

Characteristics of Additional Scenarios


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We designed the scenario 100% DIP under the same criteria used iWe designed the scenario 100% DIP under the same criteria used in Energy Oriented n Energy Oriented Scenarios. For the scenario 55% Electricity from Wastepaper (EWScenarios. For the scenario 55% Electricity from Wastepaper (EW), we considered ), we considered that the additional amount of wastepaper that is recycled in thethat the additional amount of wastepaper that is recycled in the scenario 100% DIP, is scenario 100% DIP, is incinerated in the city and electricity is recovered and sent toincinerated in the city and electricity is recovered and sent to the grid. The amount of the grid. The amount of electricity produced in this way constitutes 55% the total electelectricity produced in this way constitutes 55% the total electricity mill consumption. ricity mill consumption. We used an average Finnish wastepaper incineration model; and, sWe used an average Finnish wastepaper incineration model; and, since these ince these alternatives are oriented towards reducing the impacts caused byalternatives are oriented towards reducing the impacts caused by the energy the energy consumption, we run the model for the three power mixes see tablconsumption, we run the model for the three power mixes see table * ). e * ).

The next 3 figures present the profiles normalized against the bThe next 3 figures present the profiles normalized against the baseline model results. aseline model results. Note that scores lower than 1 mean a decrease in the category inNote that scores lower than 1 mean a decrease in the category indicator results, and dicator results, and therefore an improvement in the environmental performance. Alsotherefore an improvement in the environmental performance. Also note that these note that these graphs represent the results for this particular newsprint produgraphs represent the results for this particular newsprint production system as if it is ction system as if it is located in three different provinces as opposed to average newsplocated in three different provinces as opposed to average newsprint production rint production systems in these provinces. systems in these provinces.


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100 % DIP 55 % EW

2.0

1.8

1.6

1.4

1.2

1.0

0.8

0.6

0.4

0.2

0.0

Acidification Ecotoxicity Eutrophication Global Human Health Human Health Human Health Ozone PhotochemicalWarming Cancer Particles Non Cancer Depletion Smog

Results of additional scenario analysis – Ontario power mix


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A comparison of the results shows that the assessed alternativesA comparison of the results shows that the assessed alternatives have environmental have environmental benefits mainly when fossil sources have a high breakdown in thebenefits mainly when fossil sources have a high breakdown in the electricity mix (e.g. electricity mix (e.g. Ontario and Alberta); the higher the fossil source breakdown, thOntario and Alberta); the higher the fossil source breakdown, the higher the benefit. e higher the benefit. However, if the power mix has a negligible breakdown of fossil sHowever, if the power mix has a negligible breakdown of fossil source, there is no ource, there is no improvement in the environmental performance as a consequence ofimprovement in the environmental performance as a consequence of the 100% DIP the 100% DIP scenario; the scenario 55% EW has benefits mainly for global impscenario; the scenario 55% EW has benefits mainly for global impacts as well as for acts as well as for ecoeco--toxicity and human toxicity, presenting a range of improvement ftoxicity and human toxicity, presenting a range of improvement from 7% to 30%. rom 7% to 30%.


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Results of additional scenario analysis – Quebec power mix

100 % DIP 55 % EW

2.0

1.8

1.6

1.4

1.2

1.0

0.8

0.6

0.4

0.2

0.0



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For the power mixes where both alternatives have environmental bFor the power mixes where both alternatives have environmental benefits, the enefits, the difference in environmental performance improvement is less thandifference in environmental performance improvement is less than 10% for most of the 10% for most of the impact categories, except for regional impacts for which 100% DIimpact categories, except for regional impacts for which 100% DIP represents a better P represents a better alternative (since the scenario 55%EW produces higher amount of alternative (since the scenario 55%EW produces higher amount of combustion gases combustion gases that contributes to regional impacts); and for Ozone Depletion, that contributes to regional impacts); and for Ozone Depletion, for which 55%EW is a for which 55%EW is a better alternative (since the chemicals consumption is higher fobetter alternative (since the chemicals consumption is higher for 100%DIP scenario). r 100%DIP scenario).


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Results of additional scenario analysis – Alberta power mix

100 % DIP 55 % EW

2.0

1.8

1.6

1.4

1.2

1.0

0.8

0.6

0.4

0.2

0.0



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ConclusionsConclusions

A cradleA cradle--toto--gate LCA study for the production of 1 gate LCA study for the production of 1 admtadmt of newsprint was completed, of newsprint was completed, following rigorously ISO 14040 standards. Sensitivity analyses following rigorously ISO 14040 standards. Sensitivity analyses of the baseline model of the baseline model results show that energy consumption, mainly in the form of elecresults show that energy consumption, mainly in the form of electricity and natural gas tricity and natural gas to produce steam, as well as effluent emissions are process parato produce steam, as well as effluent emissions are process parameters that have a meters that have a significant sensitivity (>10%) on the category indicator resultssignificant sensitivity (>10%) on the category indicator results. We also identified that . We also identified that electricity mix that varies with mill location is a nonelectricity mix that varies with mill location is a non--process parameter that affect process parameter that affect dramatically the LCA results. Therefore, the drawn conclusions dramatically the LCA results. Therefore, the drawn conclusions are valid only to the are valid only to the system studied and no generalization can be done based on the resystem studied and no generalization can be done based on the results obtained.sults obtained.The developed alternative mill configurations with increased proThe developed alternative mill configurations with increased production of DIP and/or duction of DIP and/or coco--generation systems have important environmental benefits for thegeneration systems have important environmental benefits for the LCA performance LCA performance of the system studied (e.g. 20of the system studied (e.g. 20--40% reduction in Global Warming Potential), except for 40% reduction in Global Warming Potential), except for the impact categories more sensitive to natural gas consumption the impact categories more sensitive to natural gas consumption (i.e. acidification, (i.e. acidification, photochemical smog and human health particles). The effluent orphotochemical smog and human health particles). The effluent oriented scenarios iented scenarios show significant improvement for show significant improvement for eutrophicationeutrophication potential (i.e. 50potential (i.e. 50--80% reduction), with 80% reduction), with higher benefits from the membrane technology which completely elhigher benefits from the membrane technology which completely eliminates the iminates the contribution from newsprint mill effluents to contribution from newsprint mill effluents to eutrophicationeutrophication, optimizes water resource , optimizes water resource use and has available alternatives to sludge use and has available alternatives to sludge landfillinglandfilling..


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3.3. Insight into how this model might be used for Insight into how this model might be used for ““life cycle thinkinglife cycle thinking””::

•• In EMS to demonstrate continuous environmental improvementIn EMS to demonstrate continuous environmental improvement•• In EIS to quantify and communicate environmental impactsIn EIS to quantify and communicate environmental impacts



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3.3. EMS: Environmental management systemsEMS: Environmental management systems

Background informationBackground informationEnvironmentalEnvironmental managementmanagement systemssystems (EMS) (EMS) provideprovide businessesbusinesses withwith a a structuredstructuredmeansmeans ofof managingmanaging allall theirtheir environmentalenvironmental impactsimpacts. . AnAn EMS can be EMS can be thethe firstfirst stepstep forfor a a businessbusiness toto taketake towardstowards environmentalenvironmental improvementimprovement, as , as itit enablesenables organisationsorganisations totobenchmarkbenchmark theirtheir environmentalenvironmental performanceperformance, , andand thenthen regularlyregularly evaluateevaluate theirtheirperformanceperformance andand improvementimprovement. . ToTo developdevelop anan EMS, EMS, anan organisationorganisation shouldshould assessassess itsits environmentalenvironmental impactsimpacts, , setsettargetstargets toto reduce reduce thesethese impactsimpacts, , andand plan how plan how toto achieveachieve thethe targetstargets. A . A businessbusinessshouldshould provideprovide detaileddetailed informationinformation onon operationaloperational proceduresprocedures as as wellwell as as makemakeprovisionsprovisions forfor auditingauditing, , communicationcommunication, training, , training, reviewreview andand emergencyemergency planning, planning, andandclearclear designationdesignation ofof responsibilitiesresponsibilities forfor actionsactions. . EMS EMS certificationcertificationBusinessesBusinesses can can applyapply forfor certificationcertification toto internationalinternational standardsstandards suchsuch as ISO 14001. as ISO 14001. VisitVisit thethe ISOISO webweb sitesite forfor more more informationinformation aboutabout EMS ISO 14001.EMS ISO 14001.


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EMS & ISOEMS & ISOThe international The international standardisationstandardisation of Environmental Management (EM) is documented of Environmental Management (EM) is documented by the ISO 14000 series. Within this series a number of Environmby the ISO 14000 series. Within this series a number of Environmental Management ental Management tools are treated. Therefore, it can be seen as a 'toolbox' whictools are treated. Therefore, it can be seen as a 'toolbox' which offers several options h offers several options for sound Environmental Management practices in for sound Environmental Management practices in organisationsorganisations. However, a number . However, a number of questions remain because they are not treated by the standardof questions remain because they are not treated by the standards themselves. Some s themselves. Some examples are which of the tools should be applied to what kind oexamples are which of the tools should be applied to what kind of Environmental f Environmental Management problem or what are the synergisms and antagonisms beManagement problem or what are the synergisms and antagonisms between these tween these tools. To illustrate the importance of a comprehensive choice antools. To illustrate the importance of a comprehensive choice and a compatible d a compatible approach towards EMapproach towards EM--tools, Life Cycle Assessment (ISO 14040 series) is discussed in tools, Life Cycle Assessment (ISO 14040 series) is discussed in the context of Environmental Management Systems (ISO 14001). Thethe context of Environmental Management Systems (ISO 14001). The focus of ISO focus of ISO 14001 are 14001 are organisationsorganisations, while LCA deals with products or processes. In principle, they, while LCA deals with products or processes. In principle, theyare not compatible, since the lifeare not compatible, since the life--cycle approach analyses one production chain from cycle approach analyses one production chain from 'cradle to grave' or even back to the cradle, while a management'cradle to grave' or even back to the cradle, while a management system according to system according to ISO 14001 analyses ISO 14001 analyses organisationsorganisations, i.e. a number of product chains, from 'gate to gate'. , i.e. a number of product chains, from 'gate to gate'. LCAsLCAs, however, could be compiled by aggregating several 'gate to gat, however, could be compiled by aggregating several 'gate to gate' energy and e' energy and material balances of companies. LCA can assist in material balances of companies. LCA can assist in prioritisingprioritising and achieving the and achieving the objectives of an EMobjectives of an EM--System. LCA can also help to understand the environmental System. LCA can also help to understand the environmental impact of impact of organisationsorganisations and what share of their overall environmental burden is and what share of their overall environmental burden is produced 'inside the gates' or 'outside the gates', respectivelyproduced 'inside the gates' or 'outside the gates', respectively..


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DefinitionDefinition

An EMS is a continual cycle of planning, implementing, reviewingAn EMS is a continual cycle of planning, implementing, reviewing and improving the and improving the processes and actions that an organization undertakes to meet itprocesses and actions that an organization undertakes to meet its business and s business and environmental goals. Most environmental goals. Most EMSsEMSs are built on the "Plan, Do, Check, Act" model. This are built on the "Plan, Do, Check, Act" model. This model leads to continual improvement based upon:model leads to continual improvement based upon:

--Planning, including identifying environmental aspects and establPlanning, including identifying environmental aspects and establishing goals [plan]; ishing goals [plan]; --Implementing, including training and operational controls [do]; Implementing, including training and operational controls [do]; --Checking, including monitoring and corrective action [check]; anChecking, including monitoring and corrective action [check]; and d --Reviewing, including progress reviews and acting to make needed Reviewing, including progress reviews and acting to make needed changes to the EMS changes to the EMS [act]. [act].


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An Environmental Management System (EMS) is a method of incorporAn Environmental Management System (EMS) is a method of incorporating ating environmental care throughout the corporate structure. EMS incluenvironmental care throughout the corporate structure. EMS includes strategic des strategic planning activities, the planning activities, the organisationalorganisational structure and implementation of the structure and implementation of the environmental policy as an integral part of the manufacturing prenvironmental policy as an integral part of the manufacturing process. It is a useful ocess. It is a useful tool to implement to comply with legislation, address stakeholdetool to implement to comply with legislation, address stakeholder pressure and improve r pressure and improve corporate image and raise awareness of environmental issues. corporate image and raise awareness of environmental issues.

EMS is a problemEMS is a problem--identification and problemidentification and problem--solving tool, based on the concept of solving tool, based on the concept of continual improvement, that can be implemented in an continual improvement, that can be implemented in an organisationorganisation in many different in many different ways, depending on the sector of activity and the needs perceiveways, depending on the sector of activity and the needs perceived by management. In d by management. In particular, standards for EMS have been developed by the Internaparticular, standards for EMS have been developed by the International tional OrganisationOrganisationfor for StandardisationStandardisation (ISO) and by the European Commission (ISO) and by the European Commission –– EcoEco--Management and Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS).Audit Scheme (EMAS).


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Key ElementsKey Elements

-- Undertake an initial environmental review;Undertake an initial environmental review;-- Define an environmental policy;Define an environmental policy;-- Develop an environmental action plan and define environmental Develop an environmental action plan and define environmental responsibilities;responsibilities;-- Develop internal information and training courses;Develop internal information and training courses;-- Audit the environmental management system and conduct an enviroAudit the environmental management system and conduct an environmental nmental management reviewmanagement review


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Resume Resume ofof thethe EMS EMS thinkingthinking wayway


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3.3. EIS: Environmental Impact StatementEIS: Environmental Impact Statement

Whenever projects or programs are planned, there are potential iWhenever projects or programs are planned, there are potential impacts upon the mpacts upon the environment. When these proposed projects are federally funded, environment. When these proposed projects are federally funded, such impacts such impacts become important to the public. What these impacts may be and thbecome important to the public. What these impacts may be and the magnitude of e magnitude of their their effectareeffectare reported in Environmental Impact Statements. reported in Environmental Impact Statements.

DefinitionDefinitionEnvironmental impact statements are reports that outline the preEnvironmental impact statements are reports that outline the predicted environmental dicted environmental effects of a particular action or project in which the federal geffects of a particular action or project in which the federal government is involved. overnment is involved. These statements are often important in environmental regulationThese statements are often important in environmental regulation and litigation. and litigation. Environmental impact statements of a necessary or projected actiEnvironmental impact statements of a necessary or projected activity highlight the vity highlight the significant environmental ramifications of a project, describingsignificant environmental ramifications of a project, describing alternative actions which alternative actions which also must include no action being taken.also must include no action being taken.


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Environmental impact statements are required by Section 102(2) (Environmental impact statements are required by Section 102(2) (C) of the National C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (PL91Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (PL91--190) which requires federal agencies to 190) which requires federal agencies to consider the probable environmental effects of projects and progconsider the probable environmental effects of projects and programs under their rams under their control. The Act also established the Council on Environmental Qcontrol. The Act also established the Council on Environmental Quality. This threeuality. This three--member board advises the President on environmental matters and member board advises the President on environmental matters and reviews federal reviews federal programs in terms of the country's environmental policies. In 19programs in terms of the country's environmental policies. In 1971, the Council 71, the Council established procedural and content guidelines for environmental established procedural and content guidelines for environmental impact statements. impact statements. The most significant revisions comprise the 1978 guidelines, whiThe most significant revisions comprise the 1978 guidelines, which are essentially what ch are essentially what is in use today.is in use today.

Contents of an Environmental Impact StatementContents of an Environmental Impact StatementAn environmental impact statement for a proposed project outlineAn environmental impact statement for a proposed project outlines in detail the s in detail the proposed actions, alternative actions (including no action), andproposed actions, alternative actions (including no action), and their probable their probable environmental ramifications. The environmental impact statement environmental ramifications. The environmental impact statement must coverall must coverall plausible bases, which are generally determined by the rule of rplausible bases, which are generally determined by the rule of reason. If a "reasonable eason. If a "reasonable person" would consider an activity sufficiently significant to wperson" would consider an activity sufficiently significant to warrant further discussion, arrant further discussion, it should be included in the environmental impact statement. Theit should be included in the environmental impact statement. The environmental environmental impact statement must also give information on the probable impaimpact statement must also give information on the probable impact of alternative ct of alternative actions outside the jurisdiction of the responsible agency.actions outside the jurisdiction of the responsible agency.


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National Environmental Policy Act, PL 91National Environmental Policy Act, PL 91--190 190 Section 102 (2) (C)Section 102 (2) (C)The Congress authorizes and directs that, to the fullest extent The Congress authorizes and directs that, to the fullest extent possible, all agencies of the federal government shall include ipossible, all agencies of the federal government shall include in every n every recommendation or report on proposals for legislation and other recommendation or report on proposals for legislation and other major Federal actions significantly affecting the quality of themajor Federal actions significantly affecting the quality of the human human environment, a detailed statement by responsible officials on: environment, a detailed statement by responsible officials on:

--the environmental impact of the proposed action, the environmental impact of the proposed action, --any adverse environmental effects which cannot be avoided shouldany adverse environmental effects which cannot be avoided should the proposal be implemented, the proposal be implemented, --alternatives to the proposed action, alternatives to the proposed action, --the relationship between local shortthe relationship between local short--term uses of man's environment and the maintenance and enhancemeterm uses of man's environment and the maintenance and enhancement of longnt of long--term productivity, term productivity, and and

--any irreversible and irretrievable commitments of resources whicany irreversible and irretrievable commitments of resources which would be involved in the proposed action should it be implemenh would be involved in the proposed action should it be implemented.ted.

Although requirements differ between situations, the environmentAlthough requirements differ between situations, the environmental impact statement must al impact statement must discuss the total impact on the environment. According to the Codiscuss the total impact on the environment. According to the Council on Environmental uncil on Environmental Quality guidelines, it should consider:Quality guidelines, it should consider:

-- Direct and indirect effects of the projectDirect and indirect effects of the project-- Interference with other activitiesInterference with other activities-- Energy and resource requirementsEnergy and resource requirements-- Conservation and reparation potentialConservation and reparation potential-- Preservation of urban, historic and cultural qualityPreservation of urban, historic and cultural quality-- Ways to minimize damageWays to minimize damage


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Necessity of Environmental Impact StatementsNecessity of Environmental Impact StatementsThe National Environmental Policy Act requires an environmental The National Environmental Policy Act requires an environmental impact statement impact statement when a project is federally controlled and is potentially envirowhen a project is federally controlled and is potentially environmentally significant. A nmentally significant. A project is federally controlled when it requires:project is federally controlled when it requires:

-- Federal licensing,Federal licensing,-- Federal funding, orFederal funding, or-- is undertaken by the federal government.is undertaken by the federal government.The environmental impact is determined to be significant by examThe environmental impact is determined to be significant by examining similar prior ining similar prior activities and applying the rule of reason.activities and applying the rule of reason.

Preparation of Environmental Impact StatementsPreparation of Environmental Impact StatementsThe assurance of completion of an environmental impact statementThe assurance of completion of an environmental impact statement is the responsibility is the responsibility of the federal agency controlling the project. That agency is alof the federal agency controlling the project. That agency is also responsible for any so responsible for any legal consequences of the environmental impact statement. Agencilegal consequences of the environmental impact statement. Agencies with sufficient es with sufficient staff and technical expertise may prepare their own Environmentastaff and technical expertise may prepare their own Environmental Impact Statements. l Impact Statements. This is the typical practice when the agency directly designs anThis is the typical practice when the agency directly designs and implements the d implements the project itself. project itself.


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3.3. EIS : Environmental Impact StatementEIS : Environmental Impact Statement

Federal agencies whose primary role is to provide funding to staFederal agencies whose primary role is to provide funding to state or local agencies te or local agencies directing a project may require them to prepare environmental imdirecting a project may require them to prepare environmental impact statements as pact statements as part of their funding applications. State or local agencies may part of their funding applications. State or local agencies may use outside consultants use outside consultants to prepare environmental impact statements, as well as to designto prepare environmental impact statements, as well as to design and implement the and implement the project. Federal agencies with licensing power, such as the Nuclproject. Federal agencies with licensing power, such as the Nuclear Regulatory ear Regulatory Commission and EPA, often require private sector applicants to pCommission and EPA, often require private sector applicants to prepare environmental repare environmental impact statements, which is often submitted with the license appimpact statements, which is often submitted with the license application. In all cases, lication. In all cases, the environmental impact statement becomes the responsibility ofthe environmental impact statement becomes the responsibility of the federal agency the federal agency providing the license.providing the license.

Participation in the Environmental Impact Statement ProcessParticipation in the Environmental Impact Statement ProcessAccording to the National Environmental Policy Act, EnvironmentaAccording to the National Environmental Policy Act, Environmental Impact Statements l Impact Statements must be made available to the public, federal, state and local amust be made available to the public, federal, state and local authorities, the President uthorities, the President and the Council on Environmental Quality; subsequent legislationand the Council on Environmental Quality; subsequent legislation requires that they requires that they also be filed with United States EPA. The Council on Environmentalso be filed with United States EPA. The Council on Environmental Quality guidelines al Quality guidelines require that agencies responsible for Environmental Impact Staterequire that agencies responsible for Environmental Impact Statements hold public ments hold public meetings when proposed projects foster strong debate or interestmeetings when proposed projects foster strong debate or interest. Each agency must . Each agency must also provide the public with information on how to participate ialso provide the public with information on how to participate in the environmental n the environmental impact statement review process. impact statement review process.


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What Is Included?What Is Included?An environmental impact statement for a proposed project outlineAn environmental impact statement for a proposed project outlines in detail the s in detail the proposed actions, alternative actions (including no action), andproposed actions, alternative actions (including no action), and their environmental their environmental ramifications. The environmental impact statement must cover allramifications. The environmental impact statement must cover all plausible activities plausible activities associated with the proposed project. The type of activities to associated with the proposed project. The type of activities to be included is generally be included is generally determined by the rule of reason. That is, if a "reasonable persdetermined by the rule of reason. That is, if a "reasonable person" would consider an on" would consider an activity sufficiently significant to warrant further discussion,activity sufficiently significant to warrant further discussion, it should be included in the it should be included in the environmental impact statement. environmental impact statement.

The environmental impact statement must discuss the total impactThe environmental impact statement must discuss the total impact on the environment on the environment (see next figure). According to guidelines from the Council on E(see next figure). According to guidelines from the Council on Environmental Quality, it nvironmental Quality, it should include: should include:

-- Direct and indirect effects of the project, Direct and indirect effects of the project, -- Interference with other activities, Interference with other activities, -- Energy and resource requirements, Energy and resource requirements, -- Conservation and restoration potential, Conservation and restoration potential, -- Preservation of urban, historic and cultural quality, and Preservation of urban, historic and cultural quality, and -- Ways to minimize damage. Ways to minimize damage.


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Total Impact to the Environment


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When is an Environmental Impact Statement Necessary?When is an Environmental Impact Statement Necessary?The National Environmental Policy Act requires an environmental The National Environmental Policy Act requires an environmental impact statement impact statement when a project is federally controlled and is environmentally siwhen a project is federally controlled and is environmentally significant. An activity is gnificant. An activity is federally controlled when it requires federal licensing or federfederally controlled when it requires federal licensing or federal funding, or when it is al funding, or when it is undertaken by the federal government. undertaken by the federal government.

Who Prepares the Environmental Impact Statement?Who Prepares the Environmental Impact Statement?The preparation of an environmental impact statement is the respThe preparation of an environmental impact statement is the responsibility of the onsibility of the federal agency controlling the project. Agencies with sufficientfederal agency controlling the project. Agencies with sufficient staff and technical staff and technical expertise may prepare their own environmental impact statements.expertise may prepare their own environmental impact statements. This is the typical This is the typical practice when the agency directly designs and implements the propractice when the agency directly designs and implements the project itself. ject itself.

Federal agencies with licensing power (such as the Nuclear RegulFederal agencies with licensing power (such as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission) atory Commission) require the private sector applicant to prepare an environmentalrequire the private sector applicant to prepare an environmental report, which is report, which is usually submitted with the license application. Preparing the drusually submitted with the license application. Preparing the draft and final aft and final environmental impact statements then becomes the responsibility environmental impact statements then becomes the responsibility of the federal of the federal agency providing the license. The environmental report for the Magency providing the license. The environmental report for the Midwest Compact's lowidwest Compact's low--level radioactive waste disposal facility will probably be prepalevel radioactive waste disposal facility will probably be prepared by the company red by the company selected by Ohio to build and operate the facility. selected by Ohio to build and operate the facility.


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3.3. Insight into how this model might be used for Insight into how this model might be used for ““life cycle thinkinglife cycle thinking””::•• In EMS to demonstrate continuous environmental improvementIn EMS to demonstrate continuous environmental improvement•• In EIS to quantify and communicate environmental impactsIn EIS to quantify and communicate environmental impacts

4.4. QUIZQUIZ



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4.4. QuizQuiz

Answer the following questions:Answer the following questions:

1 1 –– What could be the advantages of using the EMS (What could be the advantages of using the EMS (Environmental Management Environmental Management Systems)Systems) for a small and mediumfor a small and medium--sized organizations over a large one sized organizations over a large one ? ?

2 2 –– How big does an organization need to be to successfully implemenHow big does an organization need to be to successfully implement an EMS t an EMS ??

3 3 –– Do we need to be in 100% compliance in order to have an EMSDo we need to be in 100% compliance in order to have an EMS ??

4 4 –– The following list contains some aspects of EMS . Which aspects The following list contains some aspects of EMS . Which aspects are not related to are not related to the Environmental Management Systems ?the Environmental Management Systems ?

1.1. QualityQuality PolicyPolicy2.2. AdequateAdequate ResourcesResources3.3. ResponsibilitiesResponsibilities andand AuthoritiesAuthorities4.4. Training Training 5.5. SystemSystem DocumentationDocumentation6.6. ProcessProcess ControlsControls7.7. DocumentDocument Control Control 8.8. SystemSystem AuditsAudits9.9. ManagementManagement ReviewReview


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4.4. QuizQuiz

5 5 –– WhatWhat’’s the purpose of an EISs the purpose of an EIS ??6 6 ––7 7 ––8 8 ––


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End of Tier IIIEnd of Tier III

•• This is the end of Module 14. Please submit your report to yourThis is the end of Module 14. Please submit your report to your professor for professor for grading. grading.

•• We are always interested in suggestions on how to improve the coWe are always interested in suggestions on how to improve the course. You may urse. You may contact us atcontact us at www.namppimodule.orgwww.namppimodule.org


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4.4. Answers of the quizAnswers of the quiz

Question 1 Question 1

Small and mediumSmall and medium--sized organizations often have certain advantages over larger sized organizations often have certain advantages over larger organizations in ensuring effective environmental management. Inorganizations in ensuring effective environmental management. In smaller smaller organizations, lines of communication are generally shorter, orgorganizations, lines of communication are generally shorter, organizational structures anizational structures are less complex, people often perform multiple functions, proceare less complex, people often perform multiple functions, processes are generally well sses are generally well understood, and access to management is simpler. These can be reunderstood, and access to management is simpler. These can be real advantages for al advantages for effective environmental management.effective environmental management.


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EMS have been implemented by organizations ranging in size from EMS have been implemented by organizations ranging in size from a couple of dozen a couple of dozen employees to many thousands of employees. The elements of an EMSemployees to many thousands of employees. The elements of an EMS (as described in (as described in this Guide) are flexible by design to accommodate a wide range othis Guide) are flexible by design to accommodate a wide range of organizational types f organizational types and sizes. and sizes.


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No. The concept of continual improvement assumes that no organizNo. The concept of continual improvement assumes that no organization is perfect. ation is perfect. While an EMS should help an organization to improve compliance aWhile an EMS should help an organization to improve compliance and other measures nd other measures of performance, this does not mean that problems will never occuof performance, this does not mean that problems will never occur. However, an r. However, an effective EMS should help you find and fix these problems and preffective EMS should help you find and fix these problems and prevent their event their recurrence. recurrence.


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-- Quality policy : in EMS there is an environmental policyQuality policy : in EMS there is an environmental policy-- Process Controls: in EMS there is operational controlsProcess Controls: in EMS there is operational controls


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TheThe primaryprimary purposepurpose ofof anan EIS EIS isis toto provideprovide anan impartialimpartial discussiondiscussion ofof significantsignificantenvironmentalenvironmental impactsimpacts, , andand reasonablereasonable alternativesalternatives andand mitigationmitigation measuresmeasures thatthat avoidavoidoror minimizeminimize adverseadverse environmentalenvironmental impactsimpacts. . ThisThis environmentalenvironmental informationinformation isis usedused by by agencyagency officialsofficials--in in conjunctionconjunction withwith applicableapplicable regulationsregulations andand otherother relevantrelevantinformationinformation--toto makemake decisionsdecisions toto approveapprove, , conditioncondition, , oror denydeny thethe proposalproposal. .

module 14. “life cycle assessment (lca)” 4 steps of … 14 – life cycle assessment 3 namp...

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