Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a comprehensive method used to evaluate the environmental impacts associated with all the stages of a product's life, from raw material extraction through materials processing, manufacture, distribution, use, repair and maintenance, to disposal or recycling. LCA helps in identifying the environmental impacts of a project and is crucial in determining the sustainability of processes and products. It plays a vital role in assessing the environmental footprint and informing strategies to minimise negative impacts.

Our project harnesses the power of bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) by using energy crops as a primary resource. These crops are first processed via anaerobic digestion, a natural process where microorganisms break down organic material in the absence of oxygen. This results in the production of biogas, a mixture primarily composed of methane and carbon dioxide. We then refine this biogas to extract biomethane, which is a sustainable and renewable alternative to natural gas. Simultaneously, the CO2 produced during this process is captured and later transported for secure underground storage. 

Our LCA model for feedstock production is informed by guidelines from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a globally recognized authority providing scientific insights on climate change. This alignment ensures our methods are aligned with international best practices. Additionally, the LCA for operations on the anaerobic digestion (AD) site is grounded in an extensive literature review of the latest research in AD technology. This thorough approach ensures every aspect of our operations is closely scrutinised and accurately quantified.

By developing our own in-house LCA model, we are able to integrate cutting-edge scientific knowledge to explore and quantify novel methods to help us work towards achieving a near-net-zero renewable gas production. Just a few of the emissions mitigation options we are currently considering include: abated release fertilisers, use of bio-CNG powered farm and haulage vehicles, optimal application of cover crops and use of fertilisers produced using CCS.