Life cycle analysis is an examination of all the energy and resources that go into a product and their associated impacts. The analysis relates to not only its environmental impact but its economic and health related impact also. In other words it is an examination of all the energy that embodies the product.

Life-cycle Analysis or LCA study for glass

Taking glass as a study for the LCA analysis it is interesting to note its various aspects. Glass applied in the right location and right quantity characterizes a building in a unique and special way.

The process of glass making has a huge impact on the environment right from its raw material extraction to glass processing and manufacturing.

The study includes the total inputs and outputs of energy and materials used in the processing and production of raw materials and energies utilised including the manufacturing process.

The manufacture of glass process is extremely energy-intensive. But that’s not all that constitutes LCA.

Effective LCA analyses must also account for the energy savings realized by products throughout their life since they can offset the CO2 emitted during production. Studies indicate savings of over 100 million tonnes of CO2 could be achieved annually if buildings in Europe switched to energy efficient glass.

Conclusion

No isolate product is “green” or “non-green” by itself since we need to evaluate each utility and select the most appropriate or least environmental impact material from the current choices available.

Finding the right mix of green products for each building is the key. Designers need to ensure that the same is done effectively. There is no ‘one size fits all’ solution for sustainability of buildings and products.

Effective practices to ensure green material usage and minimal negative impact on the environment needs to be inculcated to help and encourage builders and constructers make a “True Sustainable difference” to the Environment.