In this project, the possibility of standardizing a simplified structure of concepts for system analysis through discrete choice of system boundaries will be investigated. The purpose is to reduce the complexity of system analysis sustainability studies with the aim of achieving international standardization of clear system boundary choices for environmental calculations, such as environmental damage, life cycle analyzes and environmental impact.

Background

In this project the possibility of standardizing a simplified structure of concepts for system analysis through discrete choice of system boundaries will be investigated. The project group  will study ad hoc and formal standards where the system boundaries ​​arise and which system boundaries are applied by decision-making in society, industry and finance.

The work will be carried out by experts within existing standards and by environmental system analysts, together with the network within Chalmers competence center Swedish Life Cycle Center (within the field) and with experts within SIS and within relevant SIS and ISO committees.

The investigation will specifically address gaps in existing and future standards in environmental management (ISO / TC207), circular economy (ISO / TC323), sustainable finances (ISO / TC322) and sustainable procurement (ISO 20400). Hereby we intend to facilitate sustainable responsibility, production, consumption and decision-making.

Aim & objectives

The purpose is to reduce the complexity of system analytical sustainability studies with the goal to ultimately achieve international standardization of clear system boundary choices ​​for environmental calculations; such as environmental damage costs, life cycle analyzes and the environment performance calculations. Needs owners are decision makers and developers for eg. various advanced system solutions in infrastructure, industry, circular economy, finance and procurement.

Outcomes

The result of the project will be presented at a seminar at Swedish Life Cycle Center and at a working group meeting at SIS. The result will also be published in a public report with recommendations for continuation: The ambition is that the continuation should be in the form of a proposal for a new work object for ISO (NWIP).