Table of contents
What is an LCA?
LCA, or life cycle assessment, is a comprehensive method of analyzing the environmental impact of a product at every stage: from raw material extraction, production, transportation, use and end of life. LCA is a tool that allows companies to understand and optimize their environmental footprint, identifying key areas for improvement. Our services cover the full range of LCA analysis, helping companies meet their sustainability goals and increasingly stringent environmental requirements.
What information does a life cycle assessment include?
A product life cycle assessment includes detailed information about:
- Environmental emissions – greenhouse gases, air, water and soil pollution.
- Energy consumption – renewable and non-renewable energy used at each stage of the life cycle.
- Resource consumption – the amount and type of natural resources used.
- Waste generation – the amount and type of waste at each stage.
- Environmental impact – assessment of factors such as climate change, soil acidification and water eutrophication.
- LCA provides data to help make informed decisions for sustainable development.
Objectives of life cycle assessment
The objectives of a product life cycle assessment are:
- Environmental impact assessment – to identify and minimize the negative environmental impact of a product throughout its life cycle.
- Optimization of manufacturing processes – reducing emissions, energy and natural resource consumption.
- Supporting sustainable design – creating products with less environmental impact.
- Product comparison – enabling the selection of greener alternatives.
- Meeting regulatory and certification requirements – compliance with environmental standards such as ISO 14040.
- Building sustainability strategies – supporting corporate goals related to ESG and the circular economy.
The process of conducting an LCA analysis
Conducting an LCA analysis begins with collecting and evaluating data on all stages of a product’s life cycle. Our experts identify and analyze environmental impacts in categories such as greenhouse gas emissions, resource consumption, waste generation and others. Based on the results of the analysis, we prepare a detailed report that includes recommendations for reducing negative environmental impacts. The process also involves working with clients to implement suggested changes, which can lead to significant savings and improved environmental performance.
The role of an external consultant in preparing an LCA
An external consultant plays a key role in ensuring the reliability and compliance of the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) with standards, such as ISO 14040. He verifies the accuracy of the data, certifies the results of the analysis and supports the creation of the Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), if needed. Through independent assessment, it provides transparency and confidence in the results, which is important for business decisions and compliance with environmental regulations.
Application of product life cycle assessment in various industries
Life cycle assessment (LCA) is widely used in various sectors. In construction, it helps assess the environmental impact of materials and supports environmental certifications such as LEED and BREEAM. In the manufacturing industry, it helps optimize processes, reduce emissions and lower raw material consumption. In energy and transportation, it enables evaluation of fuel and technology efficiency and minimization of greenhouse gas emissions. In agriculture and food, it analyzes the environmental impact of the supply chain, promoting more sustainable practices. In every industry, LCA supports sustainable decision-making.
Benefits of using LCA
LCA is not only a tool for assessing and improving the environmental aspects of products, but also helps companies meet regulatory and market requirements. Life cycle analysis is increasingly being used as a criterion in environmental tenders and certifications. With our services, companies can effectively manage their environmental impacts and strengthen their position in the market. In addition, LCA enables companies to better understand the full scope of their environmental activities, which is key to building sustainable business strategies and communicating environmental values to customers and business partners.
