Wind turbines in Brazil and Germany: an example of geographical variability in life-cycle assessment

A life-cycle assessment of a single product can produce substantially varying results that depend on the location of production. It is the aim of this study to provide an example of this geographical variability by examining the energy and CO2 embodied in a particular wind-turbine manufactured in Brazil and in Germany. Our results demonstrate the importance of adequately considering the background system of the local economy. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.