Correct option is C
Lifecycle assessment (LCA) is a systematic process used to evaluate the environmental impacts of a product throughout its entire lifecycle. This includes the stages of raw material extraction, manufacturing, packaging, distribution, use, and disposal. Among these,
disposal plays a critical role as it assesses the end-of-life stage, which significantly impacts sustainability and environmental health.
Key Focus of Lifecycle Assessment 1.
Definition: LCA aims to identify and minimize negative environmental effects associated with a product at each stage of its lifecycle.
2.
Disposal as a Primary Concern:
· Disposal involves waste management, including recycling, landfilling, or incineration.
· It determines the long-term impact on ecosystems due to material degradation, emissions, or resource recovery potential.
3.
Other Stages in LCA: While LCA considers all stages, disposal is critical as it often leads to significant pollution or resource loss if not managed properly.
Information Booster
Stages of Lifecycle Assessment:
·
Raw Material Extraction: Environmental impacts from sourcing raw materials.
·
Manufacturing: Energy and emissions during production.
·
Packaging: Use of materials and associated waste.
·
Distribution: Energy use and emissions from transportation.
·
Usage: Energy and resources used by consumers.
·
Disposal: Waste management and resource recovery.
Significance of Disposal in LCA:
· Proper disposal can reduce landfill waste, promote recycling, and mitigate pollution.
· Focuses on circular economy principles, encouraging reusability and minimizing ecological footprint.
Additional Knowledge
(a)
Manufacturing: While manufacturing is a key LCA stage, it does not account for the product's environmental footprint beyond production.
(b)
Packaging: Though significant, packaging's environmental impact is not as comprehensive as disposal, which involves waste and pollution management.
(d)
Distribution: Environmental impact during distribution (e.g., transportation emissions) is important but less critical compared to disposal in LCA.