Abstract
Purpose: It is frequently mentioned in literature that LCA is linear, without a proof, or even without a clear definition of the criterion for linearity. Here we study the meaning of the term linear, and in relation to that, the question if LCA is indeed linear. Methods: We explore the different meanings of the term linearity in the context of mathematical models. This leads to a distinction between linear functions, homogeneous functions, homogenous linear functions, bilinear functions, and multilinear functions. Each of them is defined in accessible terms and illustrated with examples. Results: We analyze traditional, matrix-based, LCA, and conclude that LCA is not linear in any of the senses defined. Discussion and conclusions: Despite the negative answer to the research question, there are many respects in which LCA can be regarded to be, at least to some extent, linear. We discuss a few of such cases. We also discuss a few practical implications for practitioners of LCA and for developers of new methods for LCI and LCIA.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1872-1882 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment |
Volume | 25 |
Issue number | 10 |
Early online date | 21 Aug 2020 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 21 Aug 2020 |
Keywords
- LCA
- Life cycle assessment
- Linear models
- Linearity
- Nonlinear models