Introducing a streamlined life cycle assessment approach for evaluating sustainability in defense acquisitions

We introduce a methodological approach for conducting a streamlined life cycle assessment (SLCA) of defense systems. The approach is recommended for application in those cases where assessors are faced with alternative options for the design of a defense system and where quantitative data describing the system inputs are limited. Also, it is intended to be used to assist sustainability-minded decision makers, those who recognize the importance of sustaining resources while preventing adverse impacts to mission, human health, ecosystem health, air, water, and land. The approach includes defining the scope and boundaries of the system, and its alternatives, inventory data collection, impact assessment, and interpretation. Results from the SLCA can be used to compare performance of two or more alternatives in terms of impacts to these areas of concern. The unique features of this approach include the screening of system processes using the activity profile, collection of resource input data for the processes with the greatest potential for impacts, and application of scoring factors unique to the impact categories assessed. The approach is rigorous, systematic, and intended to promote informed acquisition decisions that consider principles of sustainable design. Future research activities will include the application of the methodological approach to acquisitions for defense and other industries.