Integrating Ecosystem Services into Life Cycle Methods: An Analytical Assessment of Frameworks and Challenges

Given the current acknowledgement by policymakers of the essential importance of ecosystem services for human well-being, there is an increasing demand for appropriate approaches to assess ecosystem services. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of several evaluation frameworks to assess their degree of integration with life-cycle tools, the specific strategy they employ, and the extent to which they include environmental, economic, or both aspects. In order to achieve this objective, nine distinct criteria have been established to categorise the chosen frameworks. Additionally, a hierarchical method for conducting a thorough evaluation has been devised, utilising these criteria. The frameworks analysed exhibit varying degrees of complexity in their implementation, depending on the level of expertise required. This complexity is influenced by factors such as the scope of the evaluation, the availability and quantity of input data, and the necessity for more or less advanced data processing. Ecosystem services can be assessed with either whole or partial coverage. It is important to note that some frameworks possess distinct capacities for valuing specific services, such as pollination, making them more appropriate than others.