General

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a research-intensive university focused on finding solutions to some of the world’s most pressing scientific challenges in areas such as food, water, energy, and the environment. The university has a growing interest in sustainability assessment methodologies, particularly Life Cycle Assessment (LCA).

KAUST researchers needed comprehensive training on LCA methodologies to apply these techniques across their diverse research portfolio. With various research teams using different software tools including OpenLCA, GaBi, GREET, and SimaPro, there was a need for standardised training to ensure consistent methodology application.

Outline & Objectives

KAUST engaged Decerna to develop and deliver in-person LCA training for 25 researchers, including MS/PhD students, postdocs, and faculty staff. The training needed to:

• Build foundational knowledge in LCA methodologies
• Develop practical skills using openLCA software
• Provide hands-on experience with real-world examples relevant to KAUST’s research areas
• Establish a framework for standardised LCA practice across research groups

The training was structured as a blended learning experience with pre-course materials, an intensive four-hour face-to-face session on campus in Saudi Arabia, and post-course practical assignments to reinforce learning.

Approach

Decerna’s approach included:

1. Pre-course preparation: Participants received comprehensive notes covering LCA fundamentals, ISO standards, software options, electricity grid impacts, and environmental impact categories.
2. In-person workshop: Led by Dr. Tom Bradley, the session included:
   • Review of core LCA principles
   • Hands-on training with openLCA
   • Two tailored case studies aligned with KAUST’s research priorities
   • Q&A and troubleshooting sessions
3. Post-course assessment: Participants completed an independent LCA project using openLCA, with remote support from the Decerna team.

Outcomes

The training programme successfully:

• Equipped 25 KAUST researchers with practical LCA skills
• Standardised LCA approaches across multiple research groups
• Provided researchers with transferable knowledge applicable to various LCA software platforms
• Established a foundation for KAUST to integrate LCA methodologies into future research projects

Participant feedback highlighted the value of the practical case studies and the expertise of the Decerna training team. Following the training, several research groups implemented LCA methodologies in their ongoing projects, enhancing the environmental assessment component of KAUST’s research output.

Further Information

Decerna offers specialised LCA training for academic institutions, industry partners, and public sector organisations. Our training can be customised to address specific sectors including renewable energy, carbon capture technologies, construction, consumer products, and food production systems.

For more information on Decerna’s LCA training programmes, please contact info@decerna.co.uk.