ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the major tools available for use in design for environment, and where and when they are best applied. It also outlines some of the analytical tools available to assist in the identification and evaluation of environmental impacts. A process tree or life-cycle map can be used to assist in identifying all the key stages in the product life-cycle. The process tree should identify all the major upstream stages, such as raw material extraction and processing, and all the major downstream stages, such as packaging, distribution, transport, use, disposal and recycling. The unit processes are linked together to form the product system, and the flows of materials are calculated for the product. To determine the impact of a product on the environment it is necessary to determine the flows of material and energy through the product system. Impact assessment aims to simplify the inventory information into groups of emissions or potential impacts on the environment.
