Elinkaarikonteksti

Elinkaarikonteksti refers to the concept of considering the entire lifecycle of a product, service, or system when making decisions. This includes everything from the initial extraction of raw materials, through manufacturing, distribution, use, and finally, disposal or recycling. The goal is to understand and minimize the environmental, social, and economic impacts at each stage.

By adopting an elinkaarikonteksti approach, organizations can identify areas for improvement that might be overlooked if only a single phase is considered. For example, choosing a product with less energy-intensive manufacturing might seem beneficial, but if its use phase requires significantly more energy or it cannot be easily recycled, the overall environmental impact could be greater. This holistic view encourages sustainable design, efficient resource management, and responsible consumption.

Elinkaarikonteksti is often employed in environmental assessments, such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), which quantifies the environmental burdens associated with a product's existence. It also informs policy-making and business strategy, aiming to foster circular economy principles and promote long-term sustainability. Understanding the full elinkaarikonteksti allows for more informed choices that balance immediate needs with future consequences.