Published on 20 February 2025
EU4Algae is a key platform for bringing together the latest breakthroughs, events, and resources for stakeholders dedicated to advancing algae-based solutions.
On 4 February 2025, a collaborative webinar on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in algae-based systems brought together AlgaeProBANOS partnered with SeaMark, CIRCALGAE, LOCALITY Algae, and REALM algae to explore its role in sustainability. The event brought together experts to discuss the role of LCA in evaluating the environmental impact of algae-derived products and the challenges associated with process selection.
Why Life Cycle Assessment Matters for Algae-Based Products
Algae offer significant potential as a renewable and regenerative alternative to conventional resources in various industries, including feed, agrochemicals, textiles, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and biostimulants. However, determining whether algae-based products are more eco-friendly than their conventional counterparts requires a robust LCA approach.
LCA evaluates the environmental footprint of products throughout their life cycle, from cultivation and processing to end-of-life disposal. However, variability in algae cultivation techniques, regional differences, and emerging processing technologies pose unique challenges when selecting appropriate LCA methodologies.
Key Insights from the Webinar
The session featured LCA experts from each participating project who shared their approaches to process selection for five real-world examples. Moderated by Léa Braud from KTH Royal Institute of Technology, the discussion was led by Jean-Baptiste Thomas from AlgaeProBANOS. The panel explored critical issues such as:
- Standardising LCA methodologies across different algae-based applications
- Addressing challenges related to data availability and consistency
- Evaluating carbon and nutrient budgets in algae cultivation
- Integrating LCA into broader sustainability frameworks, including socio-economic and ecological assessments
AlgaeProBANOS and the Role of LCA
Within AlgaeProBANOS, LCA plays a crucial role in ensuring the sustainability and circularity of algae-derived products. The project focuses on:
- Developing pilot-level LCA appraisals to help businesses optimise their supply chains
- Assessing carbon and nutrient budgets, including monitoring greenhouse gas emissions and sequestration
- Providing LCA-based environmental impact insights to compare algae-derived products with conventional alternatives
- Incorporating LCA into a comprehensive sustainability framework
By aligning methodologies and data sources, the webinar set the foundation for future collaboration, strengthening the credibility of algae-based LCAs and supporting the broader adoption of regenerative algae solutions.
Watch the Webinar Recording
Missed the session? Watch the full webinar recording on YouTube: Watch here!
Additional information
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