The phrase denotes a comprehensive assessment of a product’s environmental impact throughout its entire life cycle. This encompasses all stages, commencing with resource extraction and raw material acquisition. It proceeds through manufacturing, transportation, distribution, usage, and ultimately, end-of-life management, which may involve recycling, repurposing, or disposal. For instance, a product evaluation following this methodology would consider the energy consumed in its production, the emissions generated during its transport, and the waste produced when it is discarded.
The significance of this holistic approach lies in its ability to identify and address environmental burdens at each stage of a product’s existence. By examining the complete life cycle, opportunities for improvement and optimization become apparent. This enables businesses to minimize their environmental footprint, promote resource efficiency, and reduce waste. Historically, focus was often placed solely on the manufacturing phase; however, this broader perspective reveals that environmental impacts can be substantial during other stages, leading to more informed decision-making.
