Methodology for the Evaluation and Comparison of Benefits and Impacts of Green Infrastructure Practices Using a Life Cycle Approach

摘要

This study uses a life cycle approach to evaluate and compare individual green infrastructure practices. The scope of this analysis is cradle to grave benefits and impacts of selected green infrastructure best management practices (BMPs). Fully functional and continuously monitored BMPs at the Villanova University campus were used in this study. These green infrastructure practices are representative of BMPs throughout the Philadelphia Area. Results are normalized across different practices using stormwater management regulatory guidelines. Metrics used to evaluate and compare green infrastructure practices include ozone depletion, global warming, smog formation, acidification, eutrophication, human health cancer, human health non-cancer, human health criteria pollutants, eco-toxicity, fossil fuel depletion, land use, water use, labor impacts and life cycle economic costs.Based upon the results of the study, recommendations will be made to promote a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to the design and implementation of green infrastructure. Professionals in the future will be able to better realize sustainable site and building design by selecting appropriate green infrastructure practices to achieve not only stormwater management goals but also broader environmental, economic, and social goals throughout the complete life cycle of a project.