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LCA Modelling Experience

ICM / Econergy Carbon Model
WSP staff developed the corn ethanol life cycle GHG emission calculator currently used by ICM Inc. This tool evaluates ethanol plant-specific fuel life cycle emissions for US corn, wheat and sorghum based ethanol production. This model has been compared with other publicly available models (GREET and BESS) and found to produce very comparable results.

SimaPro Life Cycle Assessment
We utilize the SimaPro commercial life cycle assessment software package and the Ecoinvent life cycle inventory database to perform life cycle assessment of bio-based fuels and chemicals.

GREET and CA-GREET Modeling
WSP can customize the publicly available GREET and California GREET models to your specific process, supply logistics and distribution models. The models can easily be customized to produce results for a number of existing and novel biofuel production technologies. We can develop a user-friendly "front-end" for these models to enable easy modification of inputs and development of "what if" scenario analysis. Additionally, these model results may be used in the context of compliance with the California Low Carbon Fuel Standard.

RFS II Regulatory Analysis
Our staff are familiar with the models used by EPA for the Renewable Fuel Standard II Regulatory Impact Analysis. LCA under RFS II takes a much different approach than the attributional process-based LCA method used by GREET and other tools. We can help you to identify and customize the EPA's tools so they can be used to generate more producer-specific results. This analysis is key for prospective advanced ethanol and cellulosic ethanol producers. For companies developing novel production processes, we will work with you to petition the EPA to approve new technology pathways that are representative of your process.

Biofuel Sustainability Certifications
Certain markets are requiring fuel distributors to show chain of custody evidence of sustainable biofuel sourcing. This certification process may be rigorous and time consuming but is designed to ensure that sustainability practices are being enforced during feedstock and fuel production. In the European Union, producers must achieve a 35% life cycle GHG emission reduction, relative to reformulated gasoline, and must meet a number of other sustainability criteria in order to be certified. The International Sustainability and Carbon Certification is a process which is being used by the EU biofuels market. WSP can assist you in successfully navigating this regulatory challenge.

The Roundtable for Sustainable Biofuels (RSB) is a voluntary organization dedicated to promoting sustainability practices at the fuel distribution level.  Fuel retailers (blenders, distributors) need to show weighted average life cycle GHG emission reductions of 50% or greater for the biofuels they source in order to receive RSB approval.

Whether you're looking to enter the EU biofuels market or are looking to join this voluntary sustainability effort, WSP can advise and assist you during the certification process.