Recent life cycle analysis (LCA) studies have examined that lead-based products demonstrate sustainability credentials and show environmental benefits.
Three studies, commissioned by the International Lead Association (ILA), researched the environmental impact of lead-acid based batteries and architectural lead sheet. The “cradle to grave” studies covered the mining and extraction of raw materials, fabrication, use and disposal as well as energy and transportation considerations.
All three studies highlighted the life cycle assessments of lead obtained by high recycling rates and therefore reducing environmental impacts, according to ILA. Andy Bush, ILA managing director said: “These life cycle assessment studies are a significant step forward for the lead industry and provide an opportunity to highlight the excellent environmental impact of lead-based products.”
The studies also showed that the environmental advantage of advanced technology of lead-based batteries during the use phase outweighs the impacts of their production.
The LCA studies were conducted for the EU region according to ISO14040 and ISO14044 standards. Data from the LCAs will be added to reference life cycle databases.
More than 100,000 tonnes of lead sheet are used in Europe each year and 90% of batteries used for industrial applications are lead-based. ILA also highlighted the great use of lead-acid batteries in the automotive industry.
