Dr. Enrico Benetto

KEYNOTE LECTURES – Life cycle assessment of geosynthetics: a pathway to sustainability

BIOGRAPHY:

Enrico focuses on developing science-based methods and indicators to guide industry and society toward climate targets and sustainability transitions. With 25 years of leadership in R&D institutions, his work in Sustainability Science spans the design of products, technologies, and policies.

He has co-authored over 120 peer-reviewed papers, 150 conference proceedings, 18 book chapters, and edited the open-access book Designing Sustainable Technologies, Products and Policies (Springer, 1.4M accesses). Enrico has contributed to over 50 European research projects and 30 collaborative partnerships with SMEs, policymakers, and large industries, advancing sustainability knowledge and practice.

Enrico has built strategic partnerships with national ministries and organizations like the World Alliance for Efficient Solutions. He serves in prominent advisory roles, including the EU Platform on Sustainable Finance, the Climate Policy Observatory of Luxembourg, and the Scientific Advisory Board of the Luxembourg Sustainable Finance Initiative (LSFI), driving innovative approaches for a sustainable future.

ABSTRACT:

In this lecture we will explore the life cycle assessment (LCA) of geosynthetics, a crucial tool for understanding the environmental impacts of these materials from cradle to grave. Geosynthetics have revolutionized infrastructure, water management, and soil stabilization, often outperforming traditional materials by reducing excavation needs, transportation costs, and carbon footprint. Yet, as sustainability becomes a global imperative, we must evaluate their life cycle to align innovation with environmental stewardship.

The LCA framework reveals both opportunities and challenges. Geosynthetics enhance resource efficiency and extend infrastructure lifespan, minimizing emissions over time. However, challenges persist, particularly in the production phase, which relies heavily on fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. End-of-life management is another critical issue, as recycling remains technically complex and economically unviable in many contexts, leaving landfilling and incineration as predominant options.

Methodological challenges further complicate LCA implementation. Data gaps, variability, and region-specific limitations hinder accuracy. Defining functional units for long-term applications and deciding on system boundaries—whether to include secondary effects such as reduced maintenance—add layers of complexity. Additionally, the lack of harmonized standards across industries limits comparability and policy development.

To address these challenges, the field should prioritize innovation in material science, such as developing bio-based and recyclable geosynthetics, while improving recycling systems. Collaboration between researchers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers is essential to establish standardized methodologies and incentivize sustainable practices.By integrating robust LCA into decision-making, we can advance technologies that meet engineering demands while respecting planetary boundaries.