The latest release of Sphera’s Managed LCA Content (MLC) is here — and it’s a game-changer. The 2025.1 update brings fully refreshed, highly accurate datasets, reaffirming our commitment to delivering the most current and reliable life cycle assessment (LCA) data available. Let’s dive into what makes this release so exciting.
A comprehensive data overhaul
The 2025.1 MLC release is all about ensuring that our clients have access to data that reflects the very latest in energy and technology insights. Here are the key highlights:
- Massive dataset expansion:
Over 600 new datasets have been integrated into the system. This includes 300 new datasets added to our base databases—a free bonus for clients with an annual maintenance contract or subscription license—and an additional 300 datasets in our Premium databases. This expansion means deeper insights and broader coverage for your LCA projects.
- Enhanced renewable energy metrics:
Updated greenhouse gas emission flows and emission factors now better reflect the use phase of hydro power plants, providing more accurate environmental impact assessments.
- Futuristic grid mix models:
As energy systems evolve, so does our data. New models incorporating Carbon Capture, Storage and Usage (CCUS) and hydrogen-powered electricity from solid oxygen fuel cells (SOFC) are now part of the mix, helping you project future energy landscapes with greater precision.
- Battery data redefined:
With significant updates to lithium-ion battery data across cell-level, pack-level, and chemistry-specific parameters — and the introduction of new sodium-ion battery data — users now have enhanced tools for evaluating battery performance and sustainability.
- Refined chemical and industrial data:
Collaborating with trusted LCA consultants from PlasticsEurope, our steam cracker models have been harmonized to deliver comparable results. In addition, production routes for acetone cyanohydrin (ACH), acetylene (ethyne), and propylene oxide (PO) have seen marked improvements. We’ve also updated datasets for Chinese caprolactam and propylene granulate production to reflect the latest country-specific technologies.
- Agricultural data transformation:
Our continued effort to modernize agricultural datasets has resulted in their transfer to the new Sphera Agricultural Model. Expect further improved and harmonized data for commodities such as coffee, olives, sorghum, and barley.
- Traci 2.2 impact factors
Traci 2.2 allows for a regionalized assessment as geo-specific characterization factors are provided (on country and US-state level). 33,000 new regionalized flows for P, N, NH3 and NOx are now available in the MLC database. All new flows are also characterized for the main other eutrophication impact methods available in the MLC database.
Spotlight on novel recycling technologies
In today’s world, sustainable waste management is more crucial than ever. This release webinar includes a dedicated focus on novel recycling technologies, showcasing processes that complement mechanical recycling to close the loop on polymer waste. This includes:
- Chemical recycling insights:
Showcasing datasets that model the pyrolysis of plastic waste or the pyrolysis of waste tires, offering new perspectives on chemical recycling.
- Additional recycling data:
Fresh data for polymer dissolution further strengthen your ability to assess emerging recycling technologies, supporting circular economy targets and decarbonization efforts.
What’s in a name? Understanding “CUP” and versioning
The update is dubbed “CUP” (Content Update), with the version number 2025.1 indicating that this is the first major content update of the year. This naming convention reflects our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement throughout 2025, ensuring that you always have access to state-of-the-art LCA data.
Looking ahead
The Sphera MLC database 2025.1 release is more than just a routine update—it’s a leap forward in ensuring best-in-class data quality and consistency. Whether you’re a veteran in the LCA community or just starting out, these enhancements provide a robust foundation for making informed, sustainable decisions.
Together, we’re paving the way toward a more sustainable future.
