expert input to the 2004 UNEP/SETAC meeting, on the evaluation of ecotoxicity in the Life Cycle Impact Assessments (LCIA) of metals. Key recommendations:
- use of bioavailable instead of total metal;
- elaborate on local/regional impacts of metals due to differences in bioavailability and background levels;
- exclude infinite time horizons or consider long-term conversion towards less bioavailable metal species;
- exclude impacts for essential metals where there is evidence of metal deficiencies such as open oceans.
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Note: The panel concluded that business or policy decisions should not be immediately based on the results of the currently available, deficient methods for assessing ecotoxicity in Life Cycle Impact Assessments. Further discussion is needed to carefully interpret results. As follow up, research projects were initiated by experts and ICA provided input from the copper risk assessment, establishing a basis for progress and a fairer assessment for metals and copper. The declaration provides tools for experts to assess, highlight and communicate the critical issues & uncertainties in LCIA reporting.
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