An innovative environmental tool to evaluate the sustainability of anthropogenic processes: the tetrahedron approach

The Tetrahedron approach is a new environmental tool adapted to assess the sustainability of anthropogenic processes. This tool is based on a four-step methodology that includes (a) the identification of critical parameters, (b) evaluation through the Tetrahedron Parameter Global Evaluator, (c) construction of a tetrahedron diagram based on the final scores and (d) quantitative estimation of the global sustainability. The Tetrahedron incorporates various aspects of sustainability, including economic, social and environmental factors, and provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating the impact of human activities. This article presents the methodology and application of the Tetrahedron in determining the sustainability of five case studies: CO₂ capture, unconventional methanol production, the Solvay process, CO₂-alcoholic fermentation process strategy and the CO₂-Rumen fermentation process strategy. The results demonstrate the Tetrahedron as an effective and reliable tool to quantify the sustainability of anthropogenic processes and to promote sustainable practices across various industries and sectors. The Tetrahedron offers several advantages over other environmental assessment tools, including holistic approach, simplicity and flexibility.