Exam Question

### (a) Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) of Fuels
Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) is a comprehensive and systematic methodology used to evaluate the total environmental impact, specifically the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, associated with the entire lifespan of a marine fuel. The analysis extends from the initial extraction of raw materials to the final use of the energy onboard a vessel, a concept often termed "cradle-to-grave" or, in this context, "Well-to-Wake".
As established by the IMO's Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 81) in the **2024 Marine Fuel Life Cycle Guidelines**, LCA provides a standardized framework for assessing the GHG intensity of all marine fuels, including electricity. The assessment considers the key greenhouse gases: Carbon Dioxide (CO₂), Methane (CH₄), and Nitrous Oxide (N₂O), accounting for factors such as methane slip.
#### Stages of Life Cycle Analysis