Towards a Sustainable Aerospace Industry: A Concept for a Standardized Life Cycle Assessment Data Exchange in the Aviation Supply Chain

In consequence of the climate change and respective growing need for more sustainable value creation, it is essential that all industries assess and minimize their specific environmental impact across the entire supply chain. To this end, the exchange of sustainability data, such as provided by Life Cycle Assessments (LCA), is essential. This paper addresses the challenges associated with the sharing of LCA data in the aerospace industry, e.g. lack of standardization, limited accessibility, or poor interoperability. The objective of this study is to develop a concept for the exchange of LCA data in the aviation industry. The methodology applied is an inductive analysis, utilizing a case study of an aircraft cabin sidewall to assess current LCA data exchange practices in the aviation supply chain in order to identify key needs. As part of the analysis, a literature review was conducted, as well as interviews and focus sessions with experts from the aviation industry. The result of the paper is the formulation of three conceptual approaches for the LCA data exchange in the aviation industry, which are subsequently discussed and evaluated. Additionally, the paper provides an outlook on future data exchange practices that aim to enhance transparency regarding environmental impacts throughout the entire life cycle and promote a more sustainable and interconnected supply chain.