ASTM E 3256:2024

1.1 This practice provides guidelines and criteria to follow when selecting reference scenarios, utilizing science-based measurable indicators, to facilitate a transparent and replicable comparison. 1.1.1 It is a common desire for decision makers, researchers, and others to assess the effects of bioproducts. Such assessments inherently require the comparison of conditions under a system with the bioproduct (test scenario) to a system without the bioproduct (the reference scenario). 1.1.2 This practice is applicable, but not limited to, life-cycle assessments (LCA), sustainability analyses, and techno-economic assessments (TEA). 1.2 This practice provides consistent terminology for use with the test and reference scenario. The terminology used in this practice may be used in other documents and by other practitioners with alternate definitions. 1.3 This practice is applicable whenever the test or reference scenario involves biomass directly or energy or industrial chemicals from biomass. 1.4 This practice provides guidelines for developing and documenting reference scenarios that represent the best available data and projections for what is expected to occur in the absence of the biomass-based test scenario to be evaluated. 1.5 The practice is applicable to: 1.5.1 Reviews and evaluations of the suitability of the reference scenario selected for an existing study or comparison. 1.5.2 All biomass-based production systems and materials, including forestry, agriculture, algae, co-products, and wastes. 1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

13.020.55