Integration of detailed/screening LCA software-based tools into design processes

Existing studies and methodologies for eco-design of products have not sufficiently taken into account the integration of different types of lifecycle assessment (LCA) software-based tools in design processes in detail, and their application has not systematically matched these with design process stages. On the other hand the ever increasing pace of new IT tools for Life Cycle Assessment of products requires that old eco-design methodologies are revised and updated according to the new pool of new software-based tools for environmental impact assessment. In order to study the suitability and timely integration of the different type of LCA software-based tools (detailed/streamlined-screening) within the design process, as well as showing their advantages/disadvantages; this paper presents a case study of the design/development of an eco-lighting product where two types of LCA software-based tools: Simapro (detailed LCA software-based tool) and Sustainable Minds (screening LCA software-based tool) are used to support the design and development of the product. The results of the study provide useful insights and guidelines about which type of LCA software-based tools to use, and when they are used during the design process.