Life Cycle Assessment of CRT, LCD and LED Monitors

Abstract

The increasing consumption patterns in emerging economies like India and China with half the world population has increased the environmental concerns. E-waste in these countries is rapidly increasing and monitor is one of the major contributors to it. The paper aims at assessing the life cycle environmental impact of Cathode Ray Tube (CRT), Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) and Light Emitting Diode (LED) monitors. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of three widely used monitors has been performed based on the international standards of ISO 14040 series. The LCA was constructed using Umberto software version 5.6 and expressed with both CML (Centrum voor Milieuwetenschappen) 2001, mid-point assessment method and Impact 2002+, end point assessment method. This study is expected to guide policy makers in government to improve e-waste management strategies and also it will create awareness among the user. The monitor manufacturers may leverage the study to improve the environmental impact of these products. Sensitivity analysis for the use phase has been performed to confirm the robustness of results.