Defining the functional Unit

The functional unit (FU) in this LCA is 1 MWh of useful energy produced from each utilization option.
The reason behind the selection of functional unit is that the aim is to evaluate the performance of
three different utilization options. [1] This has been chosen to be used as a reference to be able to
quantify the inputs and outputs of the three different utilization options. Another functional unit
that could also be used is one tonne of feedstock. This would give a different environmental
performance if used compared to 1MWh for this multifunction system (dual function of waste
management and renewable energy production). Choudhary et al, 2014 demonstrates that the
choice of functional unit can significantly change bioenergy pathway choices. [2] For this reason and
the ones outlined above, the functional unit is in fact 1MWh of useful energy as it is important that
we look at each utilization option.

References

[1] M. N. Perez-Camacho, R. Curry and T. Cromie, "Life cycle environmental impacts of biogas
production and utilisationsubstituting for grid electricity, natural gas grid and transport fuels,"
Waste Management, vol. 95, pp. 90-101, 2019.

[2] S. Choudhary and S. e. a. Choudhary, "Reference and functional unitcan change bioenergy
pathway choices," The International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment, vol. 19, no. 4, pp. 796-805,
2014.