Environmental, social and economic challenges - EdexcelEnvironmental impact

Life cycle analysis (LCA) assesses the environmental impact associated with a product, including:

• raw materials
• manufacture
• transportation
• disposal

This makes it easier for the manufacturer to identify the areas that can be altered to reduce the possible environmental impact and cost of a product.

There are two main types:

• linear - ends with disposal, adding waste to landfill
• circular - continuous and incorporates recycling and resuse to ensure materials and products are kept in use for as long as possible.

Life cycle analysis needs to be considered by the designer, the manufacturer and the consumer to reduce negative impact on the environment.