What does LCA stand for?

Lifecycle assessment (LCA) is a systematic approach used to evaluate the environmental impacts of a product or service throughout its entire lifespan. This includes all stages, from raw material extraction and production through to usage and disposal. LCA helps identify opportunities for improvement in processes and materials, aiming to minimize negative environmental effects while enhancing sustainability.

The focus on assessment across the entire lifecycle is crucial for understanding the true environmental footprint, as impacts can arise at various stages that may not be immediately obvious. By taking a comprehensive view, LCA supports informed decision-making for sustainable development and is widely used in environmental management and product design. This understanding is essential in the context of technological and social systems, which is where the principles of CEE181, emphasizing the interplay between technology, society, and sustainability, come into play.