Parameters enable you to add variables and calculations into your LCA models. When used smartly, parameters can make your modelling process much faster and reduce the need for having multiple versions of the same product.
Adding parameters to your processes are particularly useful when you want to compare different scenarios and see what happens to the environmental impact if any of your variables changes.
Use case examples for parameters:
Comparing scenarios
Sensitivity analysis
Ecodesign
LCAs at scale
Calculating formulas
Using parameters
The first step in adding parameters to your cycles is to think which inputs of your model deserve to be treated as variables. Add parameters only for the inputs that can have variations. Good examples for parameters are transportation distance, weight of the product and different material types.
Type of parameters
There are 2 types of parameters you can use in your models, numeric and option.
Numeric variable
Used for representing input values with a specific unit
Examples: weight, distance, energy use
Option variable
Used for representing available alternatives and types.
In calculations the options have a value of 1 when active and 0 for non-active alternatives.
Only one alternative per option parameter can be active at a time.
Examples: types of materials, end-of-life alternatives, optional product add-ons
Adding a parameter
You can add parameters to your cycle at any time of your modelling process.
1. Open the Parameters section from your cycle's left side floating menu.
2. Click "New parameter"
3. Fill out the information needed for creating the new parameter. Items marked with * are mandatory. The form changes based on the selected type.
Name: Name your parameter in a describing way
Example: Weight of the fruits
Identifier*: The name of the variable that you will use in the formula editor for creating calculations
Use only lower case letters and underscore. Special characters are not allowed.
Example:
fruit_weight
Type*: Select the type of the parameter: numeric or options
The form changes based on the selected type.
 | When Numer type is selected:
|
 | When Option type is selected:
|
4. Click the button "Save parameter".
5. The saved parameters are visible in the Parameters section.
Editing and deleting parameters
Once you have created a parameter you are able to edit it any time.
 | Edit a parameter1. Click the pencil icon on the row of the parameter that you wish to edit. 2. Once edited click the "Save parameter" button.
Delete a parameter1. Click the pencil icon on the row of the parameter that you wish to delete. 2. Click the "Delete parameter" button. |
Related topics
Using parameters in calculations - Formula editor
Using parameters in calculations - Formula editor
You can build complex formulas and build smart dependencies with your parameters. It is very easy to use once you learn the correct syntax of the formula editor.
The formula editor accepts the following elements:
Numbers
Parameter identifiers
Mathematical symbols and brackets
( + - * / ^ )Comments starting with
#Line jumps and spaces to improve readability
Example formula:
transport * ((fruit_weight + plastic_weight + cardboard_weight)/1000)
# This is a comment in the formula, which is ignored by the calculator.
Using parameters in a formula
You can use an exciting parameter in a formula by typing its identifier or by select it from the list on the right hand side. While you are typing the system will suggest available parameters and options. Click on a suggestion to accept it.
For option type parameters, the parameter name should be followed by a dot . and the selected alternative. For example:
fruit.apricot * fruit_weight
Using OR and AND logic in formulas
You can build dynamic cycle with complex formulas where the result depends on one or more selected option parameters.
*-> AND+-> OR
Example of a complex formula, with multiple selectable option parameters:
# Formula if Europe and either the Top or the Bottom layers are selected
(
region.[Europe] * (product.[Layer Top] + product.[Layer Top + Layer Bottom]) * layers_europe_top
)
+
# Formula if Asia and either the Top or the Bottom layers are selected
(
region.[Asia] * (product.[Layer Top] + product.[Layer Top + Layer Bottom]) * layers_asia_top
)
In the above formula example, the value of the input changes based on the selected region (Europe, Asia) and the type of the layer (Top, Bottom or both layers).
Adding a calculation to an input
You can add a calculation that uses your parameters to any of your existing process, exchange and even custom process.
1. Open the input's menu and click the "root" icon to open the formula editor
Alternative way:
Type "=" sign into the value box to open the formula editor.
NOTE: This will delete any existing values.
Read more here about the syntax of the formula editor.
Comparing scenarios
Comparing scenarios
Parameters enable you to compare different scenarios of your cycle and you can compare them even with any of your cycles or database processes.
Click the "Scenarios" button on the top right corner
Set the values of your parameters you want to explore and click "Add scenario to compare".
Optional step: Rename your scenario or leave it the system default
Click "Save name"
Repeat steps 2-4 as to add more scenarios to the comparison.
Once you have added all the scenarios you want to compare click the button "Compare scenarios"
Now you have a comparison with all your saved scenarios.
Saved scenario comparisons can be found in the Comparison tab of your workspace.
Edit your comparison settings if needed.
Viewing scenarios in the cycle view
Viewing scenarios in the cycle view
When you want to view the effect of your parameters you can either edit the values of your existing parameters or create a new scenario without saving it.
Click the "Scenarios" button on the top right corner
Set the values of your parameters you want to explore