Life cycle assessment of CO2 capture and utilization: a tutorial review

Abstract

Capturing CO₂ and using it as an alternative carbon feedstock for chemicals, fuels and materials has the potential to reduce both CO₂ emissions and fossil resource depletion. To assess the actual environmental benefits of CO₂ capture and utilization (CCU), life cycle assessment (LCA) is considered as suitable metric. To enhance the use of LCA of CCU, this tutorial review gives a jargon-free introduction of LCA of CCU directed at LCA novices. Nine particularly important aspects for conducting an LCA of CCU are identified and illustrated with CCU examples. These aspects, phrased as action items, can serve LCA novices as a checklist through all steps in LCA of CCU: from defining the LCA purpose and the system boundaries, over data collection and environmental impact computation, to interpretation and sensitivity analysis of the results. Finally, in the context of CCU, an outlook is given on recent developments in LCA that aim to cover all pillars of sustainability (people, planet, and profit).