Improving the Social Life Cycle Assessment Framework for Bioeconomy

The research presented in this thesis aimed to determine whether social life cycle assessment (S-LCA) for the bioeconomy could be improved by defining a standardized set of impact categories and indicators. This inquiry arose due to the lack of comparability among existing studies and inconsistencies in covering social impacts. Through bibliometric analysis and a structured review, the research concluded that establishing a universal, baseline set of impact categories and stakeholders is essential for ensuring future comparability of S-LCA in the bioeconomy. The research developed a reproducible, comparable, and standardized S-LCA framework for bio-based products, validated through empirical studies and structured into five key investigations. The first study established the foundational context by exploring the evolution of the bioeconomy and identifying critical gaps in its alignment with sustainability principles. Through bibliometric data and network analysis, the study highlighted how the focus on technological and economic aspects often overshadowed social dimensions. Framed by the FAO's 'Aspirational Principles and Criteria for a Sustainable Bioeconomy,' the analysis underscored the importance of incorporating issues like food security, land rights, and traditional knowledge into bioeconomy strategies. The second study analysed the methodological challenges of S-LCA, particularly whether a harmonized approach for the bioeconomy is feasible given the multifunctional nature of bio-based products. By synthesising multiple S-LCA studies on bio-based value chains, the research identified strengths and weaknesses in the literature, emphasising the need for a comprehensive approach that includes all relevant stakeholders, such as researchers and waste workers, who are crucial for innovation and circularity in the bioeconomy. The third study focused on identifying a universal, baseline set of indicators for bioeconomy S-LCA. Using a Fuzzy-Delphi approach, the research gathered expert opinions from diverse bioeconomy stakeholders across the EU and Brazil. The results produced a set of impact categories reflecting diverse perspectives within the bioeconomy, offering a standardised approach to measuring social impacts while accounting for regional specificities. The fourth study explored the potential need for a new stakeholder group within the S-LCA framework, specifically researchers in the bioeconomy. A literature review and a survey of bioeconomy researchers revealed the unique social challenges faced by early-stage and junior researchers, leading to the proposal of tailored indicators to better capture their social impacts, though a new stakeholder category was not proposed. The final study applied the proposed modifications to the S-LCA guidelines in a case study of a university composting project. This evaluation covered multiple stakeholder groups and tested the effectiveness of the selected impact categories. The case study demonstrated that the universal baseline list of social impact categories could be implemented as a practical starting point, providing comprehensive social coverage for the bioeconomy. However, further validation of the framework is required in other bioeconomy sub-sectors. The research progressed logically from identifying knowledge gaps to addressing methodological challenges and proposing a practical framework for future S-LCA studies in the bioeconomy. Key lessons, such as the need for greater attention to social issues and the inclusion of diverse stakeholders and participatory approaches, informed the development of the universal baseline set of indicators. This framework is intended to guide future bioeconomy S-LCA studies in a socially responsible and methodologically sound manner.