Threshold inventory interpretation methodology

Abstract

Threshold Inventory Interpretation Methodology (TIIM) is a methodology for Life Cycle Inventory Interpretation (impact assessment). TIIM is unique in that it incorporates the spatial dependency of environmental releases, includes pollutant thresholds, and simplifies pollution prevention decision-making processes for industrial systems. It is predicated upon using the best scientific information available today.

TIIM is demonstrated here through a case study using the atmospheric emissions for three juice container systems (glass, plastic A, plastic B). The emissions reported are from a life cycle inventory. A comparison of the kilograms of each emission from the glass and plastic A systems favored plastic A; however, the comparison of glass and plastic B was inconclusive. Application of the TIIM to the glass and plastic B data yielded more conclusive results. Use of the TIIM life cycle inventory interpretation approach yields results that are more easily interpreted, scientifically based, and, in many instances, more conclusive than results from existing impact assessment approaches.