Woodhead Publishing Life Cycle Assessment of the Environmental Impact of Natural Materials (Woodhead Publishing Series in Composites Science and Engineering)

Life Cycle Assessment of the Environmental Impact of Natural Materials explores the LCA of natural materials that are currently being utilized in product development. The book covers LCA theories, strategies, and current methodologies and presents the vital role that LCA plays in assessing the environmental impact of natural resources in different industries, including agriculture, mining, bio-based products, and textiles. It demonstrates how LCA can be used to steer the creation of environmentally-friendly products and to advance sustainability within the circular economy. In addition, the book demonstrates ways of incorporating LCA into everyday decision-making processes, with a particular emphasis on diverse industrial sectors. It will be a valuable reference resource for all those who are concerned about the environmental safety and sustainability of natural materials that are used in the development of environmentally- friendly products. It will allow the reader to make well-informed decisions regarding natural resources to actively participate in environmentally-conscious practices. Provides an extensive analysis of LCA approaches and strategies, with a specific focus on natural materials across various industrial sectors Focuses on environmental, economic, and social aspects as well as sustainability and the transition challenges towards the circular economy Covers the whole product lifecycle, from procurement of raw materials to end-of-life Includes applications in construction, building, textiles, packaging, clothing, biomedical, insulation, and biomass industries