Tag

functional unit

Every clca article tagged “functional unit” — 6 technical pieces covering the topic from methodology, standards interpretation and practical application angles.

6 articles

2026-08-0910 min read

Paint and chemicals LCA: formulation, VOC and coverage efficiency

In chemical products, impact can concentrate in components that are small by mass. Formulation precision, solvent choice and area covered as the functional unit.

2026-08-0111 min read

Packaging LCA: PPWR, recycled content and the functional unit

In packaging the functional unit is not 'one box' but the amount of product protected. The trade-off between light-weighting, recycled content and food waste.

2026-06-0411 min readISO Series

Comparative LCA and critical review: when is it mandatory?

Compare with a competing product and disclose it publicly, and ISO 14044 requires a review panel. The reasoning behind the rule and its practical consequences.

2026-05-1210 min readISO Series

Functional unit vs declared unit: why getting it right matters

The functional unit must reflect performance; the declared unit reflects physical quantity. Confusing the two destroys EPD comparability.

2026-05-0212 min readFundamentals

What is life cycle assessment (LCA)?

LCA is the standardised method for measuring a product’s environmental impact from raw material to waste. Its four phases, what it does and does not do, and where to start.

2026-04-1512 min readFundamentals

How is a product life cycle (LCA) calculated? In six steps

The whole flow from functional unit to result table. What data to collect, where to get it, and how quickly a first calculation can be finished.