Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is the compilation and evaluation of the inputs, outputs (see Exchanges) and the potential environmental Impacts of a Product system throughout its life cycle, as defined in ISO 14040 clause 3.2.
At its core, LCA is a systematic framework for quantifying and assessing the environmental burdens associated with a product, process, or service across all stages of its existence. This cradle-to-grave perspective covers raw material extraction, manufacturing, distribution, use, and end-of-life treatment or disposal. By examining the complete life cycle, LCA reveals environmental hotspots that might otherwise remain hidden if analysis focused solely on a single life stage.
The methodology systematically catalogues all exchanges between human activities and the environment. These exchanges include material and energy inputs drawn from nature, as well as emissions to air, water, and soil. Through characterisation and impact assessment, these exchanges are translated into measures of potential environmental impacts, such as climate change, ecotoxicity, resource depletion, and human health effects.
As Chief Operating Officer, Iris leads our organisational development and oversees day-to-day operations. Before joining 2-0, she worked in the biotechnology sector. As an LCA consultant, Iris has devoted her expertise primarily to the domains of sustainable agriculture and food production. She is dedicated to teaching LCA and is responsible for our educational efforts. Iris holds an M.Sc. in Biology – Biotechnology from the University of Copenhagen.
Contact for: LCA Training
