RIVM presents ReCiPe 2016 a new version of the in Europe commonly used life cycle impact model ReCiPe. With this model it is possible to determine to what extent the manufacturing process of a product has an impact on the environment.
The ReCiPe method was developed in 2008 by RIVM in collaboration with Radboud University Nijmegen, Center of Environmental Sciences (CML, Leiden University) and Pré Consultants. Now the first major update of the model is available. In this new version the environmental assessment is up to date with the current scientific knowledge and more elaborate and exact in details.
Life cycle analysis
With a life cycle analysis (LCA) the impact on the environment of the production of a product is determined. The analysis covers all the stages that are necessary to produce and use a product, from the extraction of the necessary raw materials to the processing of waste. Life cycle impact models (LCIA) are used within LCA to determine the environmental impact. ReCiPe is an example of such an LCIA.
RIVM role
ReCiPe was developed and managed on behalf of the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment (I&M). With ReCiPe RIVM seeks to contribute to improving knowledge about the environmental impact of goods, services and processes. On this basis, specific measures can be taken to minimise environmental impact and to move forward towards a circular economy.