Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to capture indirect effects of crop diversification – how to consider the multiple functions of diversified cropping systems?

Problem

It is unclear whether multifunctional diversified cropping systems are more sustainable than the reference systems that they replace. Comparisons need to define a common basis to take into account the multiple functions of the systems being compared.

Solution

Expanding system boundaries to define a common functional unit reflecting energy supply to the end user using substitutional LCA ensures comparable results and highlights trade-offs between environmental impacts.