Sustainable Use of PiWi Vine Leaves: Life Cycle Assessment and Techno-Economic Analysis of a Novel Vine-Leaf-Based Beverage within the Framework of the Circular Bioeconomy

This study investigates the ecological and economic performance of a novel, alcohol-free beverage derived from the leaves of fungus-resistant (PiWi) grapevines as part of a research project funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space. Using life cycle assessment (LCA) and techno-economic analysis (TEA), the study evaluates both the environmental footprint and the production costs of the beverage across multiple production scenarios. The results indicate that the PiWi-based beverage shows clear ecological advantages compared to already available drinks such as teabased beverages, fermented lemonades, and alcohol-free wine, mainly due to lower pesticide use and energy demand. Economically, production is feasible within competitive cost ranges, especially when existing winery infrastructure is utilized.