A schematic of the sequence of steps involved in development of a LCA is shown in Fig. 1. A life cycle assessment (LCA) consists of four independent elements (see Fig. 1), which have been standardized internationally (ISO 14040 series Standards, 1997-1999). These are:

5.1.1 Definition of goal and scope,

5.1.2 Life cycle inventory analysis (LCI),

5.1.3 Life cycle impact assessment (LCIA), and

5.1.4 Life cycle interpretation.

FIG. 1 Overview Process for Evaluating and Reporting Environmental Performance of Biobased Products

1.1 Environmental performance shall be measured using the life-cycle assessment (LCA) approach. LCA is a "cradle-to-grave" approach that evaluates all stages in the life of a product, including raw material acquisition, product manufacture, transportation, use and ultimately, recycling (that is, "cradle to cradle" and waste management).

1.2 LCAs for biobased products shall be conducted and communicated in a similar manner, including consistent boundary conditions, functional units, environmental indicators, and reporting formats.

1.3 This practice is limited to environmental performance metrics and excludes other metrics such as those related to economics and social equity.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.