Downstream refers to the forward direction in a product life cycle, moving towards the use phase and eventual disposal of the product. It covers the stages that occur after production, including distribution, consumer use, and end-of-life treatment.
According to ISO 14040 and 14044, a complete product life cycle includes raw material acquisition, production, use, and disposal. Downstream stages represent the latter portions of this continuum, where products fulfil their intended function and ultimately reach their end of life.
The term "downstream" stands in contrast to "upstream", which refers to the backward direction in the life cycle towards raw material extraction and production.
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.
