The field of industrial ecology is playing an instrumental role in the redesign and realignment of industrial systems and activities to be more ecologically and socially responsible. Critical to the field of industrial ecology is life cycle assessment (LCA), which involves methods, techniques, process and procedures analysis of the full range of environmental impacts, product or service life cycles, and supply chains. Developing countries and emerging economies are also harnessing the potential in LCA for sustainable development. Governments play a very important role with the leverage they have through procurement, regulation, international treaties, tax incentives, public outreach, and other policy tools. Incorporating life cycle assessments into the design and development processes for products and policies is changing the way people live, their mindset and the expectations they have for the future.
- Professor: Craig Mayberry