This International Standard describes the principles
and framework for life cycle assessment (LCA) in-
cluding
a) the goal and scope definition of the LCA,
b) the life cycle inventory analysis (LCI) phase,
c) the life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) phase,
d) the life cycle interpretation phase,
e) reporting and critical review of the LCA,
f) limitations of the LCA,
g) relationship between the LCA phases, and
h) conditions for use of value choices and op-
tional elements.
This International Standard covers life cycle as-
sessment (LCA) studies and life cycle inventory
(LCI) studies. It does not describe the LCA tech-
nique in detail, nor does it specify methodologies
for the individual phases of the LCA.
The intended application of LCA or LCI results is
considered during the goal and scope definition, but
the application itself is outside the scope of this In-
ternational Standard.
This International Standard is not intended for con-
tractual or regulatory purposes or registration and
certification.