The paper presents an updated version of the ReCiPe2008 method, known as ReCiPe2016, which is a harmonized life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) method for converting life cycle inventories into environmental impact scores at both midpoint and endpoint levels. The update aims to address the limitations of the previous version, particularly by providing globally representative characterization factors while maintaining the flexibility to implement factors at country and continental scales. Key improvements include the addition of new damage pathways, such as impacts of water use on human health, freshwater ecosystems, and terrestrial ecosystems, as well as impacts of climate change and tropospheric ozone formation. The method now includes 17 midpoint impact categories and expands the number of environmental interventions. The paper also discusses the selection criteria for environmental models, emphasizing global relevance and scientific advancement. The update highlights the ongoing evolution of LCIA methods and their importance in environmental policy.The paper presents an updated version of the ReCiPe2008 method, known as ReCiPe2016, which is a harmonized life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) method for converting life cycle inventories into environmental impact scores at both midpoint and endpoint levels. The update aims to address the limitations of the previous version, particularly by providing globally representative characterization factors while maintaining the flexibility to implement factors at country and continental scales. Key improvements include the addition of new damage pathways, such as impacts of water use on human health, freshwater ecosystems, and terrestrial ecosystems, as well as impacts of climate change and tropospheric ozone formation. The method now includes 17 midpoint impact categories and expands the number of environmental interventions. The paper also discusses the selection criteria for environmental models, emphasizing global relevance and scientific advancement. The update highlights the ongoing evolution of LCIA methods and their importance in environmental policy.