Kruse, Madeleine

Diploma Thesis:
2030

Topic:
Integration of circularity into life cycle assessment

Editor:
Madeleine Kruse

University Professor Responsible:
Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Dipl.-Wirt.-Ing. Katharina Kleinschrot
Professorship Representative: Dr.-Ing. Jan Kortmann

Supervisor:
University Supervisor: Dipl.-Ing. Aline Gruner

Editing Period:
07.04.2025 until 11.08.2025

Abstract:
This thesis examines the extent to which circularity can be integrated into life cycle assessment, particularly in connection with life cycle assessment methodology. The focus is on analyzing existing life cycle assessment methods and investigating possible extensions to take circular aspects into account. Comprehensive research on normative and legal foundations as well as on common sustainability certifications provides an overview of the current role of circular construction. It shows that circularity has hardly been established in norms so far and is only gradually being integrated into established structures in the construction industry. In addition to existing certifications, various approaches to assessing circularity are being developed, for example in the form of circularity indices. Another approach is to expand the scope of life cycle assessment to take into account the benefits and impacts of products outside their life cycle. However, since such an intervention in the methodology of life cycle assessment is associated with various challenges, it seems sensible to establish the use of circularity indices as a complementary assessment approach parallel to life cycle assessment.