Livsløpanalyse

Livsløpanalyse, 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, distribution, and use, to end-of-life disposal or recycling. The goal is to identify the environmental hotspots and opportunities for improvement within the value chain.

The process typically involves four main phases: goal and scope definition, inventory analysis, impact assessment, and interpretation. The goal and scope definition phase clarifies the purpose of the study and the boundaries of the system being analyzed. Inventory analysis involves collecting data on all relevant inputs and outputs, such as energy consumption, raw material usage, and emissions to air, water, and soil.

In the impact assessment phase, these inventory data are translated into potential environmental impacts, such as global warming potential, acidification, and eutrophication. Finally, the interpretation phase involves analyzing the results to draw conclusions, identify limitations, and make recommendations for reducing environmental burdens. LCA can be a valuable tool for decision-making in product design, policy development, and environmental management, helping to promote more sustainable consumption and production patterns.