Elinkaarisessa

Elinkaarisessa, also known as life cycle assessment (LCA) in English, is a systematic method used to evaluate the environmental impacts associated with all the stages of a product’s life, from raw material extraction through materials processing, manufacture, distribution, use, repair and maintenance, and disposal or recycling. Originating from environmental management practices, the concept gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s as industries sought more sustainable production methods. In Finland, the term *elinkaarisessa* is widely used in discussions about sustainability, particularly in policy, business, and consumer contexts.

The process involves several key phases: goal and scope definition, inventory analysis (life cycle inventory, or LCI), impact assessment, and interpretation. The goal and scope phase outlines the purpose of the assessment, system boundaries, functional unit, and assumptions. The inventory phase quantifies resource use and emissions throughout the product’s life. Impact assessment evaluates potential environmental impacts, such as climate change, resource depletion, or ecological toxicity. Finally, interpretation synthesizes the results to draw conclusions and recommendations.

Elinkaarisessa is applied across various sectors, including manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and energy, to promote sustainability. In Finland, it has been integrated into national environmental policies, such as the *Elinkaarivastuu* (life cycle responsibility) initiative, encouraging businesses to adopt more sustainable practices. The method helps stakeholders identify opportunities for improvement, such as reducing waste, optimizing energy use, or selecting eco-friendly materials.

While elinkaarisessa provides valuable insights, it also faces challenges, including data availability, methodological uncertainties, and the complexity of assessing indirect impacts. Despite these limitations, it remains a cornerstone of modern sustainability strategies, fostering informed decision-making for a greener future.