Elinikäajat

Elinikäajat, often translated as life cycle assessment (LCA), is a systematic methodology for evaluating the environmental impacts of a product or service throughout its entire life cycle. This encompasses all stages from raw material extraction, manufacturing, transportation, use, and eventual disposal or recycling. The goal of elinikäajat is to understand and quantify the environmental burdens associated with each phase, providing a holistic view rather than focusing on a single aspect.

The process of conducting an elinikäajat typically involves several key steps. First, a goal and scope definition is established, outlining what is being assessed and the boundaries of the study. Second, an inventory analysis is performed, which involves collecting data on all the inputs and outputs of the system, such as energy consumption, raw material use, and emissions to air, water, and soil. Third, an impact assessment translates these inventory data into potential environmental impacts, such as global warming potential, acidification, and eutrophication. Finally, an interpretation phase involves evaluating the results, identifying hotspots of environmental impact, and suggesting potential improvements.

Elinikäajat is a valuable tool for decision-making in various fields, including product development, environmental policy, and consumer guidance. It helps identify areas where environmental performance can be improved, supports the development of more sustainable products and processes, and can inform consumers about the environmental implications of their choices. By considering the entire life cycle, elinikäajat avoids burden shifting, where reducing an impact in one stage might inadvertently increase it in another.