Livscykelinventeringen

Livscykelinventeringen, often translated as Life Cycle Inventory (LCI), is a crucial component of a broader Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). It is a systematic data collection and quantification process that aims to identify and measure all the environmental inputs and outputs associated with a product, process, or service throughout its entire life cycle. This life cycle typically encompasses raw material extraction, manufacturing, transportation, use, and end-of-life disposal or recycling.

The data collected during an LCI includes resources consumed (e.g., energy, water, raw materials) and environmental releases (e.g., air emissions, water pollutants, waste). These inputs and outputs are then categorized and quantified in standardized units, such as kilograms of CO2 equivalents, megajoules of energy, or liters of water. The LCI serves as the foundation for the subsequent impact assessment phase of an LCA, where the environmental burdens identified are translated into potential environmental effects, such as climate change, acidification, or eutrophication.

Robust and reliable LCI data is essential for the accuracy and credibility of any LCA. This data can be obtained from various sources, including scientific literature, government databases, industry associations, and direct measurements from companies. The process involves meticulous data collection, validation, and often the use of specialized software to manage and analyze the vast amounts of information. The transparency and comprehensiveness of the LCI directly influence the ability to identify hotspots for environmental improvement and inform decision-making for sustainable product design and policy development.