Title: Support system for decision-making processes related to municipal solid waste management by taking into consideration a sustainable life cycle assessment: review on environmental, economic and social aspects

Authors: Ritielli Berticelli; Adalberto Pandolfo; Geraldo Antônio Reichert; Rodrigo Fernando Dos Santos Salazar; Rosa Maria Kalil

Addresses: Post Graduation Program in Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Passo Fundo, BR 285, km 171, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052900, Brazil ' Post Graduation Program in Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Passo Fundo, BR 285, km 171, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052900, Brazil ' Post Graduation Program in Engineering and Environmental Sciences, University of Caxias do Sul, Caxias do Sul, RS, 95070-560, Brazil ' Department of Environmental and Sanitary Engineering, Cruz Alta University, Cruz Alta, 98020290, Brazil ' Post Graduation Program in Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Passo Fundo, BR 285, km 171, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052900, Brazil

Abstract: The life cycle sustainability assessment (LCSA), which encompasses the life cycle cost assessment (LCC), the social life cycle assessment (SLCA) and the LCA (with environmental factors), were adopted to change this situation. The aim of the present study is to present the theoretical aspects and practical applications of the LCSA to help better understanding the integrated approach scope (economic, environmental and social) in municipal solid waste management (MSWM) studies. The development of sustainable MSW management systems is essential and should be based on a multidimensional approach. Research in this field must substantiate the decision-making processes through systemic processes and justify them through alternatives focused on environmental effectiveness, social acceptance and on economic accessibility.

Keywords: sustainable development; life cycle; municipal solid waste; MSW.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEWM.2020.108812

International Journal of Environment and Waste Management, 2020 Vol.26 No.2, pp.147 - 167

Received: 16 Sep 2018
Accepted: 13 May 2019
Published online: 04 Aug 2020 *

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