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Abstract: This paper assesses 13 different inputs for biodiesel production and shows that the highest cost currently associated with the processing of residual resources, as well as their small production scale, are compensated by their smaller procurement costs, by their immediate availability in the urban centers and by their larger potential for greenhouse gas emission reduction. Biodiesel production from residues can meet all technical international specifications, even the esterification process. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), the methodology used in this study, allows for the building of an efficiency index up through linear programming with multiple inputs and outputs, enabling the integration of sustainable development dimensions. The experts' conclusions were arrived at through restrictions on virtual weighting, with findings that allow the grading of alternatives. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Sustainability assessment is an important approach for decision-support in waste management systems. Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) is the most promising tool for this purpose, but it still lacks a formal methodological framework. One requirement for establishing an effective LCSA methodology is the necessary involvement of stakeholders in decisions on LCSA models, which still constitutes a gap in current assessments. In this paper we develop and apply a methodology for stakeholder consultation regarding the selection of LCSA impact categories (focussing, in this case, only on social and economic issues). The methodology is based on decision science concepts and tools with an emphasis on the elicitation of stakeholders' perspectives depicted in cognitive causal maps. Results from a case study illustrate a useful contribution from the methodology, revealing both well-established and innovative impact categories with very positive feedback from stakeholders. A methodological issue is the sensitiveness in defining endpoint and midpoint levels of impact categories. The method revealed straightforward and effective, with no necessity for quantitative ratings and minor influence of the analysts' perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]