Cradle to grave is a system boundary approach in Life Cycle Assessment that covers all stages of a product's life cycle, from raw material extraction through to final disposal. This is the most complete scope for environmental assessment, covering the full environmental profile of a product from raw material extraction to end of life.
The term derives from the metaphorical "cradle" representing birth or origin (raw material extraction) and "grave" representing death or end (final disposal). In the context of ISO 14040 and ISO 14044, a cradle to grave assessment includes all unit processes across the entire product life cycle: raw material acquisition, production and manufacturing, distribution and transport, use phase, and end-of-life treatment including final disposal.
This ensures that environmental burdens are not simply shifted from one life cycle stage to another. For example, a product that appears environmentally beneficial during use might have significant impacts during raw material extraction or disposal. Examining the full cradle to grave system lets practitioners identify environmental hotspots and avoid problem-shifting between life cycle stages.
The cradle to grave scope contrasts with other system boundary definitions. A cradle-to-gate assessment stops at the factory gate, excluding use and disposal phases, while a gate-to-gate assessment examines only specific processes within the life cycle.
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.
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