Cost-performance indicator for comparative environmental assessment of water treatment plants

► Novel indicator for fair comparison of two potable water production plants ► Cost-Performance is the ratio of environmental impact (LCA score) and total quality gain. ► Total quality gain is based on 8 parameters and on a certified water valuation system. ► The difference of CPs is evaluated through a t-test. ► Application of ReCiPe method leads to a clear advantage for one site.