Meta-analysis
Description
Meta-analyses combine the results of multiple independent studies addressing the same issue and process them using advanced statistical approaches. For many questions related to environmental performance, this approach can be more powerful than a traditional LCA, which requires data collection and sensitivity analyses. Meta-analyses offer several concrete advantages:
1. **Bias reduction**: By going beyond the methodological choices specific to each study, they reveal underlying trends that are independent of context or the data used.
2. **Generalization of results**: They help identify trends applicable to a broader range of situations than an LCA focused on a specific case.
3. **Identification of inconsistencies**: They highlight discrepancies between studies and explain observed variations, leading to a better understanding of the analyzed phenomena.
4. **Decision-making support**: They provide a solid and nuanced foundation for guiding strategic choices, particularly in investment, innovation, or regulatory matters.
In short, meta-analysis goes beyond isolated cases: it enriches the debate with a global, reliable, and directly actionable perspective.
Need a concrete example? We published a meta-analysis on the carbon footprint of nuclear electricity per kWh in the International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment in collaboration with EDF R&D LCA experts.
Want to learn more? Visit us at MIX.E 2025 !
