A LCA approach to EMS in practice. The Copenhagen Metro case study

The Copenhagen Metro is expected to start operation in the year 2001. Building a fast, high frequency, automated metro in the capital of Denmark, means reducing air pollution and local noise due to transport. Ecobilan Italy, for its experience and skill in the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology, was appointed by the main contractor of the project, Ansaldo trasporti, to implement an environment management system (EMS). Besides the traditional EMS, Ecobilan developed an innovative approach, basing the EMS on an a-priori life cycle assessment and including major elements from the design for environment methodology. As soon as the design phase, all relevant elements and sub-elements of the life cycle of a metro system have been assessed. All the stages of the life cycle have been taken into account, from the extraction of raw materials to end of life aspects, including transportation, construction and maintenance phases. The paper underlines the relationship between the project partners. The constructive co-operation has led to the setting up of a real team geared toward the implementation of an environment-friendly project.