ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT Currently, the used assessment methods for protective structures in Austria are referencing technical and economic aspects. In order to guarantee a sustainable planning of these structures, it is necessary to introduce environmental indicators and to compare them with technical and economic considerations. In this study environmental and economic indicators for six different construction types of riverbank protection structures are calculated and compared. Existing international and national standardization was used as basis for the calculation. Life cycle costs, global warming potential and cumulative energy demand are considered. The objective of the study is to demonstrate a methodical approach showing how to implement sustainable life cycle thinking in the early planning stage of riverbank protection structures. This methodology should serve as a basis for further calculations and analyzes of the life cycle of these structures.
