An activity class is a group of activities classified together under a heading in a statistical classification of activities. These classifications provide standardised frameworks for organising and categorising economic and industrial activities according to their nature, function, or sector. The most prominent example is ISIC, the International Standard Industrial Classification of All Economic Activities, maintained by the United Nations and used globally for statistical purposes.
Activity classes are useful for organising life cycle inventory data and allowing consistent aggregation and comparison across studies, databases, and regions. Grouping similar activities together allows the development of representative datasets that reflect average conditions or typical practices in specific sectors.
In LCA databases, activity classes structure data hierarchically, making it easier to identify relevant processes, conduct screening analyses, and maintain data consistency. They also support the creation of input-output models and hybrid LCA approaches through a common language that connects process-specific data with broader economic statistics.
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.
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Glossary terms are clearer once you have seen them applied. Our guide to what LCA is and how it works walks through the complete methodology: goal and scope, inventory modelling, impact assessment, and interpretation.
If you are working on an LCA study and want it done properly, see how we approach life cycle assessment.
