Low-Cost Life Cycle Assessment Performance in Manufacturing Companies: A Guide Based on Data Collection Methodology

Companies are increasingly concerned with the emissions produced by their activities. To assess and control these, a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is often performed, though it may require data which can be difficult and expensive to acquire. The present paper explores the utilization of existing technologies within manufacturing companies for this process. A literature review is presented, detailing the state of the art of this subject and presenting different tools being used today. Moreover, with the information gathered in this process, a framework is constructed where guidance is provided on digital technologies which can be used during the LCA, according to the practicality of the data acquired and the cost and effort required from the company. Furthermore, a case study in collaboration with a cosmetics manufacturer is elaborated in order to validate the proposed framework. The ensuing results demonstrate the applicability of the developed tool in real-life scenarios.