What is the importance of lifecycle assessment in the Green 7 Protocol?

The significance of lifecycle assessment in the Green 7 Protocol lies in its comprehensive evaluation of the environmental impacts associated with a product throughout its entire lifecycle, from production to disposal. This holistic approach enables teams to identify areas where improvements can be made to reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimize ecological harm.

By assessing every stage — including raw material extraction, manufacturing, distribution, usage, and end-of-life disposal — lifecycle assessment provides valuable insights that inform sustainable practices and decision-making. It helps companies not only in mitigating negative environmental impacts but also in recognizing opportunities for innovation and efficiency improvements, ultimately leading to a more sustainable product development process. This overarching view contrasts sharply with a narrow focus on just one aspect of the product lifecycle or solely economic factors, ensuring a balanced approach to sustainability considerations.