One-stop platform on Life Cycle Assessment datasets is now online
The Life Cycle Initiative has launched the Global LCA Data Access network (GLAD), a platform which allows to search, convert and download datasets from different life cycle assessment dataset providers.
The goal is that GLAD will bring together a global community seeking enhanced interoperability of LCA data, and that it will revolutionise the way in which LCA studies can be delivered, making them faster and more economical.
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) data allow policymakers to develop sound policies towards sustainable consumption and production, and industries can base their innovation and strategic sustainability decisions on more robust information. Enhanced data accessibility and interoperability benefits the whole life cycle community and enables Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to be used widely.
GLAD aims to achieve better data accessibility and interoperability. The network is comprised of independently-operated LCA databases (nodes), providing users with an interface to find and access life cycle inventory datasets from different providers, delivered in the user’s preferred format. GLAD thus supports life cycle assessment through easier access to data sources around the world.
Most of the LCA data providers are already connected to GLAD (datasets connected went from 4,000 to 80,000 in the 3 weeks ahead of the launch!), or in the process, and by the end of the year the aim is to have the vast majority of LCA data available via GLAD. GLAD hence improves sustainability-related decisions through enhanced, interoperable and global access to LCA datasets.
Check out the GLAD platform and get involved
When launching the platform the Life Cycle Initiative also launched the Roadmap for national LCA database development: Guidance and recommendations from around the world. Which offers additional guidance in support of LCA data generation globally and the development of national LCA databases. This guidance is available in both English and Spanish.
