An input-output virtual laboratory in practice - survey of uptake, usage and applications of the first operational IELab

The Industrial Ecology Virtual Laboratory (IELab) is a collaborative cloud-computing platform for compiling large-scale, high-resolution, enviro-socio-economic accounts based on multi-region input-output tables and for conducting integrated sustainability assessment projects. These include, for example, assessments of bio-fuels and low-carbon construction materials or high-resolution waste modelling. This contribution provides a structured review of IELab applications that were published in either peer-reviewed journal papers or in the form of conference proceedings. The main research question posed is 'What are the specific features of IELab that were used in the research and could the research have happened without them?' It is investigated whether the IELab has actually and truly enabled new research. A detailed analysis of IELab characteristics and their usage is presented. The results can help with the design of new research projects and inform existing and prospective users of the IELab about the options for academic research and practical applications.