Life cycle assessment as a decision-making tool

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :

• demonstrate their understanding and knowledge of the LCA methodology and associated standards;
• understand and interpret the results of an LCA study;
• identify the critical steps or elements of a process, product, or service;
• use LCA as an eco-design tool;
• use LCA in the context of environmental foresight for an entity, industry, or economic sector;
• conduct a basic LCA study based on existing data;
• explain the advantages and limitations associated with using this methodology.

• Learning Outcome 1.1. Identify and implement the concepts, laws, and reasoning applicable to a given problem
• Learning Outcome 1.2. Identify and use the appropriate modeling and calculation tools to solve this problem
• Learning Outcome 1.3. Verify the plausibility and confirm the validity of the results obtained regarding the nature of the problem posed.
• Learning Outcome 2.1. Analyze the problem to be solved or the functional need to be met and formulate the corresponding specifications.
• Learning Outcome 2.2. Model the problem and design one or more original technical solutions that meet these specifications.
• Learning Outcome 2.3. Evaluate and rank the solutions regarding all the criteria listed in the specifications: effectiveness, feasibility, quality, ergonomics, safety, and environmental and societal sustainability.
• Learning Outcome 2.4. Implement and test a solution in the form of a mock-up, a prototype, and/or a digital model.
• Learning Outcome 2.5. Formulate recommendations to improve the solution studied.
• Learning Outcome 5.3. Communicate graphically and schematically; interpret a diagram, present the results of work, and structure information.
• Learning Outcome 5.4. Read, analyze, and utilize technical documents (standards, plans, specifications, etc.).
• Learning Outcome 5.5. Write documents taking into account contextual requirements and relevant social conventions.
• Learning Outcome 6.1. Acquire and use a foundation of knowledge on the issues and tools for multi-criteria assessment of a technology's sustainability, both quantitatively and qualitatively.
• Learning Outcome 6.2. Define, specify, and analyze a problem in all its complexity, taking into account its various dimensions (social, ethical, environmental, etc.), scales (time, space), and uncertainty, and identify the spheres of individual and collective responsibility.
• Learning Outcome 6.3. Identify, propose, and implement the levers available to engineers that can contribute to sustainable development and technology (eco-design, robustness, circularity, energy efficiency, etc.).
• Learning Outcome 6.4. Demonstrate critical thinking regarding a technical solution, understand its limitations, and consider your personal stance in relation to ethical, environmental, and societal issues.
• Learning Outcome 6.5. Self-assess your work.