S-Tiles - analisi ciclo di vita

LCA, LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a process that permits the evaluation of the environmental impact of a product, process or activity via an approach defined as ‘from cradle to grave’. LCA involves a systematic analysis to identify and quantify the resources consumed (materials, energy, water). It is aimed at evaluating the impact on the ecosystem of such consumption, emission and waste. Finally, the process identifies and assesses the possibilities of making environmental improvements.

In the case of ceramic tiles, for example, LCA starts by evaluating the environmental impact of raw materials extraction activities. The next step is the assessment of the burden – in terms of energy consumption and pollution – originating in the transport of the raw materials from the place of extraction to the manufacturing facilities. LCA then takes into account the various phases of manufacturing and distribution of the product, to its final installation, use and maintenance, its recycling, if any, and, lastly, its disposal.

An approach of this kind, including numerous technological, economic and social factors linked to all the phases of a product’s life, permits the identification of weaknesses and potential areas of improvement even beyond the production site.