Environmental impact assessment using a weighting method for alternative air-conditioning systems

Requirements for the design of HVAC systems with low environmental impact have become accepted in the past decade. However, the environmental performance is complicated to evaluate, because the process is affected by several parameters. This paper presents a case study, in which a previously established method for environmental evaluation is adapted. Two alternative air handling units were analysed using life cycle assessment including the weighting step. The results, according to the weighting method applied as well as the material assumptions, show that the user stage of the life cycle of both units is the critical part of the overall impact. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All, rights reserved.