Key learning points

1. To make a product, raw materials need to be obtained and processed.
2. A life cycle assessment can reveal the people who benefit from each stage of a product’s life.
3. A life cycle assessment can reveal the costs to individuals or the environment at each stage of a product’s life.
4. At the end of its useful life a product can be repaired, recycled, incinerated or thrown away.
5. LCAs are often subjective, so it is important to consider the vested interests of those reporting on their findings.

Keywords

• Life cycle assessment - A life cycle assessment (LCA) measures the environmental impact of a product throughout its manufacture, use and disposal.

• Raw materials - Raw materials are the starting materials (such as wood, metal and crude oil) used to make products.

• Sustainable - A sustainable activity can be carried out over a long period of time with little or no negative impact on the environment.

• Subjective - Something that is subjective is based on personal feelings, opinions or perspectives.

• Objective - Something that is objective is based on facts rather than personal opinions.

Common misconception