Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in Design is a comprehensive methodology used to evaluate the environmental impacts associated with a product, process, or service throughout its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal or recycling. This holistic approach enables designers to make informed decisions that minimize negative environmental consequences and promote sustainability. LCA involves a systematic analysis of the inputs, outputs, and potential environmental impacts at each stage of the product's life cycle, including material sourcing, manufacturing, distribution, use, and disposal. By quantifying energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, and other environmental metrics, LCA provides a data-driven foundation for comparing design alternatives and identifying opportunities for improvement. This assessment tool is increasingly used in the design field to support eco-design strategies, such as material selection, process optimization, and end-of-life management. LCA also aids in compliance with environmental regulations and supports the development of environmental product declarations (EPDs) and eco-labels. The integration of LCA into the design process promotes a proactive approach to environmental stewardship, enabling designers to create products that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible and sustainable throughout their entire life cycle.
sustainable design, eco-design, environmental impact assessment, cradle-to-grave analysis, green design, product sustainability, environmental footprint, circular economy
CITATION : "Robert Anderson. 'Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) In Design.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=432172 (Accessed on June 07, 2025)"
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