ACV

Environmental assessment of a product or service across multiple criteria and every stage of its life cycle: raw material extraction, manufacturing, transport, use and end of life. ISO 14040 (principles) and 14044 (requirements). Covers 16 to 18 indicators: climate change (kgCO2e), eutrophication, acidification, resource depletion, water, biodiversity, human toxicity, etc. Harmonised EU methodology: PEF (Product Environmental Footprint, EF 3.1). Cost of a product LCA: €4,000 to €25,000 excl. VAT, depending on complexity and the number of functional units. Duration: 1 to 4 months. Underpins environmental labelling, DPP (Digital Product Passport), eco-design and EPDs. Do not confuse it with Bilan Carbone® (single CO2e criterion, organisation-focused) or with a product footprint assessment (a generic, often imprecise term).