Social Life Cycle Assessment in the construction sector: current work and directions for future research

Abstract

Abstract Purpose While social aspects are considered as part of Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA), the concept of Social Life Cycle Assessment (S-LCA) is relatively new in the construction sector, and more research is needed to comprehend its full potential and inform practice to deliver socially sustainable interventions. The paper aims to provide an account of current work in the field of S-LCA in the construction sector and presents an overview of the methodologies and frameworks that are currently used, with a focus on the critical analysis of impact categories applied to the construction sector. Methods The paper adopts a systematic review of the literature with the objective to (a) provide a holistic and cross-disciplinary overview of the S-LCA methodologies and frameworks in the construction sector, (b) explore existing gaps, and (c) frame directions for future research. Results and discussion Several gaps have been identified in relation to the S-LCA research landscape applied to the construction sector, which have, in turn, informed the formulation of recommendations for future research. Conclusions The paper emphasises the importance and the need to intensify efforts to develop and reach consensus on the categories and criteria to deliver an S-LCA framework for Social Life Cycle Assessment of built environments. The framework, underpinned by a methodology, should involve an adaptable weighting system that considers the nature of the building as well as the type and profile of occupants. It should also factor in dynamic data to inform real-time adaptations to continuously deliver socially sustainable built environment interventions.