Life Cycle Assessment (LCA): definition
A methodology for evaluating the total environmental impact of a product across its entire life, from raw material extraction through production, use, and end of life.
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a scientific methodology used to quantify the environmental impacts of a product or process across its entire life cycle: raw material extraction, manufacturing, transportation, use, and end-of-life disposal or recovery. In fashion, LCA is used to compare the environmental footprint of different materials (e.g., organic cotton vs. conventional cotton vs. recycled polyester), production processes, and end-of-life pathways. LCA results inform material choices, product design decisions, carbon accounting, and sustainability communications. The EU Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) is increasing demand for LCA expertise within fashion brands, as digital product passports will require life cycle data.