Life cycle assessment (LCA) and product carbon footprint (PCF) are two methodologies used to assess the environmental impact of products, but they serve distinct purposes and focus on different aspects of performance.
Both utilize a life cycle analysis, but the key challenge lies in understanding their different scopes. While LCA covers multiple life cycle impacts, including resource depletion, water use and waste management, PCF zeroes in solely on the carbon footprint of products.
What is life cycle assessment (LCA)?
LCA considers the entire life cycle of a product, from raw material extraction to final disposal (often called "cradle to grave"). It evaluates various life cycle impacts such as ozone depletion, water footprint and eutrophication. This approach enables companies to gain a comprehensive understanding of a product's environmental footprint, making it a powerful tool for decision-making regarding sourcing, production and waste management.
LCA offers businesses the ability to analyze environmental impacts in a holistic way, helping them optimize processes and reduce harm across multiple categories,” Pranav Negi Carbon Services Manager, SGS.
Learn more about the four steps of an LCA:
What is a product carbon footprint (PCF)?
PCF, in contrast, is a focused measure, quantifying the greenhouse gas emissions of a product over its entire life cycle, expressed in CO2 equivalents. It adheres to standards like ISO 14067 and the GHG Protocol, making it a clear and reliable tool for businesses and consumers who want to know how to calculate the carbon footprint of a product. PCF addresses emissions related to fossil fuels, biogenic sources and land-use changes, providing an essential metric for carbon management.
The key differences between LCA and PCF
The key distinction between LCA and PCF is their focus. LCA examines broader environmental impacts, while PCF strictly measures carbon emissions. For businesses seeking comprehensive insights, LCA offers a wider lens on life cycle impacts, while PCF is ideal for those prioritizing carbon emission reduction. Both are critical for improving sustainability and adhering to regulatory standards.
Learn about LCA and PCF services from SGS
We offer expert advisory services in both life cycle assessment and calculating the carbon footprint of products. With our global network and over 140 years of experience, we help businesses navigate sustainability challenges through tailored LCA and PCF services, including training, verification and compliance support.
Find out more about our services.
For further information, please contact:
Pranav Negi
Carbon Services Manager, Industries & Environment
t: +91 865 583 8547
About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,700 laboratories and business facilities across 119 countries, supported by a team of 99,250 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, safety and compliance.
Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and sustainability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.
SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH0002497458, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).
