Life cycle sustainability assessment of lignin-driven materials

Abstract

This chapter introduces life cycle assessment (LCA) as a critical tool for evaluating the environmental sustainability of lignin-driven materials. It begins by explaining the motivation behind sustainable product development, followed by a structured overview of LCA fundamentals, including its evolution, purpose, benefits, and standard methodologies. It explores the four ISO-standardized phases of LCA—goal and scope definition, life cycle inventory, life cycle impact assessment, and interpretation—using accessible language and practical illustrations. Special emphasis is given to the applicability of LCA in assessing lignin-derived materials, such as resins, fuels, and bio-based polymers, underscoring lignin’s role in replacing petrochemical feedstocks. A curated review of published LCA studies showcases methodological diversity and key findings across different lignin-based applications. To consolidate learning, a comprehensive case study guides readers through each LCA phase for a wood-based biorefinery that produces lignin as a coproduct. This hands-on section includes data collection, system modeling in SimaPro, and result interpretation, reinforcing conceptual understanding through practice. Overall, the chapter serves as both an introduction and a practical guide for using LCA in lignin-based sustainability research and innovation. © 2026 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.