A hotspot is a stage, process, activity, or specific aspect within a product system that contributes disproportionately to one or more environmental impact categories relative to other components of the system. Identifying hotspots is a step in Life Cycle Assessment for prioritising improvement efforts and focusing resources where they can achieve the greatest environmental benefit.
Hotspot analysis involves systematically evaluating the contribution of different unit processes, life cycle stages, or individual flows to the total environmental impacts of a product system. This analysis typically follows the Life Cycle Impact Assessment phase, where characterised impacts are examined to determine which elements of the system are responsible for the largest shares of environmental burden. A process contributing, for example, 60% of the total climate change impact whilst representing only 5% of the economic value would clearly be identified as a hotspot.
The identification of hotspots serves multiple purposes in LCA practice. Firstly, it guides decision-makers towards the most impactful opportunities for system improvement. Secondly, it helps focus data collection efforts on the most significant processes, which is particularly valuable when resources for detailed inventory work are limited. Thirdly, hotspot identification supports communication of results by highlighting the critical areas that stakeholders should address.
Hotspots can occur at any stage of a product's life cycle, from raw material extraction and processing through manufacturing, distribution, use, and end-of-life treatment. They may also vary significantly depending on which impact category is being assessed. For instance, the use phase might be a hotspot for energy-related impacts in electronic products, whilst raw material extraction could be the hotspot for resource depletion impacts.
It is important to recognise that hotspot analysis should consider both the magnitude of impacts and the feasibility of intervention. The most significant contributor to impacts may not always represent the best opportunity for improvement if technical or economic constraints limit potential changes.
