Impacts from cradle to grave are assessed
LCA is a valuable tool in integrated product policy (IPP). During the process of an LCA, the use of resources and the environmental impacts of the product from cradle to grave are assessed. Focus in this process goes from extraction of raw materials through production of materials, product manufacturing and use, to final disposal or reuse of the product.
LCA is an overall assessment of all parameters in order to establish a basis for making the right choices during the development process, thereby producing cleaner products.
LCA can be used when working with eco-innovation, particularly when working with product development.
A major part of the environmental impact of a product is inherent in the product itself, depending on choices taken during the product development phase, e.g. materials, processes, functionality etc.
The basic principles, known from the discipline of cleaner technology, are transferred to the IPP concept, thus, the environmental impact must be reduced throughout the entire life cycle and as close as possible to the source.
The Danish LCA Center
The Danish LCA Center was established in September 2002, and opened officially in January 2003. The Centre is a centre, working in a 4-year period to disseminate the idea underlying the life cycle approach and life cycle assessment to Danish industry and other interested parties. The Center gives access to knowledge, tools and experience within LCA work.
Among the activities of the Center are dissemination of knowledge on LCA, establishment of courses, publication of newsletters, homepage, organisation of thematic meetings, preparation of articles, development of PC tools based on the EDIP method (life cycle assessment method developed in Denmark), host for the EDIP database (data for use in life cycle assessments) establishment and servicing of LCA network, and participation in and transfer of knowledge on LCA work, including international consensus building.
The key target group is Danish industry. Focus is specifically on manufacturing plants, but also indirectly on the consultants and advisers who service Danish industry in matters relating to LCA. Other target groups are educational establishments, regional networks, branch organisations etc.
Read more at www.lca-center.dk