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Standards/ISO 14040
Current

ISO 14040:2006

Life Cycle Assessment

Principles and framework

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ISO 14040:2006 describes the principles and framework for life cycle assessment. It explains how an LCA is structured, how its phases relate and what must be transparent when results are reported. It is a framework standard rather than a recipe for one calculation method and is normally used with ISO 14044, which provides detailed requirements and guidance.

Key Requirements

  • 1
    Define the goal, intended use and audience
  • 2
    Set a functional unit and defensible system boundaries
  • 3
    Compile and relate inventory inputs and outputs to the functional unit
  • 4
    Translate inventory flows into relevant impact categories
  • 5
    Interpret results and check completeness and consistency
  • 6
    Report assumptions, limitations, data quality and review arrangements

Key Benefits

  • A consistent framework for product-system studies
  • Transparent goal, scope and boundary decisions
  • Clear links between inventory, impact assessment and interpretation
  • Better disclosure of assumptions and limitations
  • A sound basis for work performed under ISO 14044

Related Standards

ISO 14044
ISO 14001
ISO 14006