Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a method for evaluating environmental impacts across defined stages of a product, process or service.
What it means in a workplace context
Furniture LCAs may include materials, manufacturing, transport, use, maintenance and end-of-use.
Why it matters
The method can support evidence when boundaries and functional units are transparent.
Questions to ask
- What decision or requirement does Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) support?
- Which evidence or record is required?
- Who owns the information and keeps it current?
- How does it affect furniture selection, service or future change?
Applying the concept
When Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is used in reporting or supplier communication, state the boundary, period, methodology and source. Keep original evidence and distinguish verified facts from estimates or commitments.
Related Myntwork resources
Using the term in procurement
When Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) appears in a procurement document, explain what suppliers must provide and how the response will affect evaluation. Avoid requesting evidence that is not used in the award decision, and distinguish mandatory requirements from preferred information.
After delivery, verify that promised documents, services or product information were supplied. A controlled handover and clear ownership make the term operational instead of leaving it as wording in the original quotation.
