Development of a Biodiversity Indicator for LCA

We propose a full literature review of the existing impact pathways in Life Cycle Impact Assessment that evaluate the environmental damage exerted in terms of biodiversity loss, both in aquatic and terrestrial compartments, and analyze to what extent each of these indicators is operational, scientifically robust, complete, or geographically and temporarily sound, among other important parameters used in LCA to validate the applicability and robustness of the indicators applied. Thereafter, a second stage is proposed in which the direct comparability between aquatic- and terrestrial-based indicators is assessed, to determine whether they can be used holistically between environmental compartments in a fair manner. The assessment will be done at a midpoint and endpoint level. We propose a small case study in which we will analyze how these different indicators can be applied to two different systems. On the one hand, anchoveta extraction from the ocean for FMFO production. On the other hand, two different terrestrial production systems: cocoa production and avocado production. The results of this case study are intended to test mathematically the conclusions obtained from the peer-reviewed analysis of indicators and validate their use. All data used will be secondary from recent studies in Peru in which we have collected primary data, but no specific data collection activities will be established.