IMPACT INDICATORS IN TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURES: A NEW MARKET FOR ENGINEERING DESIGN RESEARCHERS

Indicators are a very important guide in decision making since they translate knowledge into easy-to-handle information units. This paper aims to draw attention to a not very explored “market” for engineering design researchers, by discussing the current state-of-the-art of impact indicators for transport infrastructures and the possibilities of more representative results by means of engineering design methodologies, such as life cycle assessment, life cycle cost, and risk analysis. The contribution of these methodologies in the definition and development of indicators has been scarce for the moment; however, the complexity of the impact of infrastructures demands a more comprehensive approach that could be provided by these methodologies.

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