Introduction to Lifecycle Analysis
Understanding environmental impact from cradle to grave
Your Progress
Section 1 of 5What is Lifecycle Assessment?
Lifecycle Assessment (LCA) is a systematic method for evaluating the environmental impacts of a product, service, or process throughout its entire lifecycle—from raw material extraction through manufacturing, distribution, use, and disposal.
🌱
Cradle to Gate
Raw materials to factory exit
🏭
Cradle to Grave
Full lifecycle including disposal
♻️
Cradle to Cradle
Including recycling and reuse
🔬 Interactive: Product Lifecycle Breakdown
Explore how emissions are distributed across the lifecycle of different products.
👕
Cotton T-Shirt
Total Lifecycle Emissions: 7 kg CO₂e
Cotton Growing
2.0 kgWater: 2,700L, Pesticides28% of total
Textile Production
2.5 kgEnergy-intensive dyeing35% of total
Manufacturing
1.0 kgCutting, sewing15% of total
Transportation
0.8 kgGlobal shipping12% of total
Use Phase
0.7 kgWashing, drying10% of total
Why LCA Matters
🎯 Identify Hotspots
Find which lifecycle stages contribute most to environmental impact
⚖️ Compare Alternatives
Evaluate different materials, processes, or design choices
📊 Support Decisions
Provide data-driven insights for product development and procurement
✅ Verify Claims
Back up environmental marketing claims with rigorous analysis