ISO 14040:2006 is the international standard that establishes the principles and framework for Life Cycle Assessment. Published by the International Organisation for Standardisation, this standard provides the foundational guidelines for conducting LCA studies across all types of products and services.
The standard defines Life Cycle Assessment as the "compilation and evaluation of the inputs, outputs and the potential environmental impacts of a product system throughout its life cycle". It establishes that LCA consists of four distinct phases: goal and scope definition, life cycle inventory analysis, life cycle impact assessment, and interpretation. These phases form an iterative framework that ensures systematic and comprehensive environmental assessment.
ISO 14040:2006 works in conjunction with ISO 14044, which provides detailed requirements and guidelines for conducting LCA studies. Whilst ISO 14040:2006 focuses on principles and framework, ISO 14044 covers the specific methodological requirements and procedures. Together, these two standards form the complete ISO framework for Life Cycle Assessment practice.
The standard emphasises several key principles that underpin credible LCA practice. These include a life cycle perspective that considers all stages from raw material extraction through production, use, and end-of-life treatment. It also stresses the importance of environmental focus, a relative approach based on a functional unit, iterative methodology, transparency, comprehensiveness, and priority given to a scientific approach.
ISO 14040:2006 is applicable to LCA studies regardless of their intended application, whether for product development, strategic planning, public policy making, marketing, or other purposes. The standard does not favour one product or process over another, maintaining neutrality in its application. It provides a common language and consistent methodology that enables comparison and communication of LCA results across organisations, sectors, and geographical boundaries.
