(630f) The UK Life Cycle Assessment Regulatory Science and Innovation Network (LCA-RSIN)

Innovate UK, led by the University of Sheffield and includes UK Universities, industrial partners, regulators and policymakers, non-governmental organisations and trade bodies.

The network was formed in response to the needs of the UK materials supply chain and Foundation Industries. During the discovery phase, a survey showed 93% felt that a network on LCA for regulatory science would definitely be useful, with 7% saying possibly and they would need to hear more.

Now in implementation phase, the network encourages harmonisation in the use of LCA in policymaking in the move towards Net Zero. We aim to understand regulatory needs to achieve a more sustainable future and develop solutions through knowledge sharing, research and training.

LCA-RSIN operates through three key routes: Working Groups, Special Interest Groups, and Signposting. Working Groups comprise subject matter experts and have been established to answer key questions in five subject areas: data, biobased and upcoming materials, methodology, practice and accreditation, and skills.

The presentation will discuss the setting up of the network, and development of a community in life cycle assessment, along with results from the 5 working groups.