Chapter 1 - Introduction. Life cycle thinking

Abstract

In the last decades, companies, consumers, and governments have become more and more involved in promoting sustainable production and consumption, improving environmental and socio-economic performance with a preventive, science-based, and resource saving approach. Life cycle thinking (LCT) represents the summa of tools and actions to achieve these goals with life cycle approach, including all supply chain steps of products/services, from cradle to grave. Over the years, LCT has evolved, multiplying experiences, methodologies, and policies. This chapter introduces the meaning of LCT in a multiple perspective. Section 1.1 underlines the main reasons leading international community and markets to adopt LCT in their choices. Section 1.2 summarizes the milestones of LCT history. Section 1.3 explores the link between LCT and sustainability. Section 1.4 introduces main tools and actions supporting governments, industries, and markets in adopting the life cycle approach. Finally Section 1.5 paints the opportunities for LCT to remain challenging in policies and practices.