Correct option is D
A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) evaluates the environmental impacts associated with all stages of a product's life, from raw material extraction to final disposal. The stages typically include:
1. Raw Material Extraction (a): Harvesting or extracting materials from the environment.
2. Product Manufacturing (b): Processing raw materials into finished products.
3. Product Remanufacture (c): Refurbishing or reusing components for additional life cycles.
4. Packaging and Distribution (d): Preparing and distributing the product for consumer use.
5. Product Disposal (E): End-of-life management, including recycling, landfilling, or incineration.
Option (d) is correct as all stages mentioned fall within the scope of LCA.
Information Booster
1. Raw Material Extraction: Impacts include resource depletion and environmental damage from mining or harvesting.
2. Product Manufacturing: Includes energy consumption, emissions, and waste generation during production.
3. Product Remanufacture: Extends the product's life and minimizes resource demand.
4. Packaging and Distribution: Packaging contributes to waste, while distribution affects carbon footprint.
5. Product Disposal: Responsible disposal minimizes environmental harm; options include recycling, landfilling, or composting.
Additional Knowledge · Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) helps in:
· Identifying opportunities for improvement in product design.
· Reducing environmental impacts across the supply chain.
· Supporting policy development and sustainable practices.
· Key Phases in LCA:
· Goal and Scope Definition: Defining the purpose and boundaries of the study.
· Life Cycle Inventory (LCI): Collecting data on inputs and outputs.
· Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA): Evaluating potential impacts.
· Interpretation: Analyzing results and drawing conclusions.