What is the focus of a 'Cradle to Gate' life cycle assessment (LCA)?

The focus of a 'Cradle to Gate' life cycle assessment (LCA) specifically addresses the environmental impact associated with a product from the initial extraction of raw materials through to the point where it leaves the production facility, typically before it reaches the end consumer.

This assessment includes all phases of the manufacturing process up until the product is shipped out of the factory, which encompasses raw material extraction, transportation of those materials, and the manufacturing process itself. It does not cover the impacts associated with the use of the product by the consumer or its disposal, which are considered in other types of assessments, such as 'Cradle to Grave', that look at the entire lifecycle from creation to disposal.

Understanding this specific focus helps clarify how products are evaluated in terms of sustainability throughout their early life stages, making it easier for manufacturers to identify opportunities for reducing environmental impacts before the product reaches the market.