Program Overview
This 2-day course provides a comprehensive understanding of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in agricultural systems, going beyond carbon footprint evaluation. Participants gain practical skills in applying LCA methodologies tailored for agriculture, exploring impact categories beyond greenhouse gas emissions and utilizing models like Cranfield systems-LCA. The program is suitable for professionals with knowledge of LCA, agriculture, or environmental science.
Program Outline
Agricultural Lifecycle Analysis - More Than Just the Carbon Footprint
Degree Overview
This 2-day course offers a deep dive into Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) within the context of agricultural systems, delving beyond the limitations of solely evaluating the carbon footprint. Participants will gain practical knowledge on applying LCA methodologies specifically tailored for agricultural practices.
Objectives:
- Equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct a comprehensive and scientifically sound LCA of agricultural systems.
- Foster a critical understanding of the complexities inherent in agricultural LCA and the various impact categories beyond solely greenhouse gas emissions.
- Enable participants to apply LCA with confidence while comparing and contrasting different approaches available.
- Provide hands-on experience with LCA models like the Cranfield systems-LCA model and other associated tools.
Program Description:
The course utilizes a blend of lectures, practical sessions, and group work to comprehensively address the nuances of agricultural LCA. Participants will engage in discussions, practical exercises, and a case study related to LCA applications in various agricultural scenarios, including both cropping systems and pasture/housed ruminant production.
Outline
Content:
- Principles of LCA: Participants will gain a strong foundation in the fundamental principles and theoretical framework of LCA.
- LCA vs.
- Carbon Footprint: The course delves into the critical differences between LCA and the more limited scope of carbon footprint assessments.
- Agricultural Systems and Their Unique Features: Participants will explore the distinctive characteristics of agricultural systems in the context of environmental appraisal, focusing on specific elements like long-term soil effects and variable emissions.
- Data Sources and Quality: Understanding the complexities of data gathering and assessment for agricultural LCA will be addressed.
- Impact Beyond Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The course expands beyond carbon footprint to encompass a holistic evaluation of environmental impacts.
- Systems Models vs. Empirical Sources of Input Data: The advantages and limitations of both system models and empirical data sources will be critically explored.
- Hands-on Application: Participants will gain practical experience utilizing the Cranfield systems-LCA model and other pertinent tools.
Structure:
- The program unfolds over 2 days, encompassing interactive lectures, practical sessions, and group discussions.
- The schedule includes familiarization with various accounting methods relevant to agricultural LCA.
- A case study focusing on a cropping system LCA will be explored alongside an assessment of pasture and housed ruminant production systems.
Assessment
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Teaching
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Careers
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Other
Admissions:
- Applicants should possess a good knowledge of LCA, agriculture, or environmental science.
- Familiarity with quantitative methods is desired.
Partnerships:
- This course is delivered through the Agrifood Training Partnership (AFTP).
Fees:
- Standard fee: £580
- Discounted fees apply for Cranfield alumni, colleagues of alumni, professional/trade associations, and multiple bookings.
