Aim
The general aim of the course is that the student should acquire an understanding of environmental systems analysis and its complexity, be stimulated to discuss and reflect on the possibilities of assessing the total environmental impact of a product or a service, and be trained in critical thinking, the identification and definition of a problem, and the writing of reports.

Knowledge and understanding
For a passing grade the student must

• Be able to demonstrate a deeper knowledge of life cycle assessment, both regarding its possibilities and limitations, through critical examination of life cycle assessment (LCA) according to current ISO 14040 standards.

Skills and abilities
For a passing grade the student must

• Independently search for data and information relevant to LCA contexts, and evaluate them.

• Independently identify and define a problem, and write a report analysing it from an environmental systems perspective.

• Independently perform a broad life cycle assessment and evaluate the results, including choice of subject, searching for data and information, calculations and analysis of sensitivity and uncertainties.

Contents
The methodology of LCA according to ISO 14044 is described in lectures.Various life cycle assessments are examined in exercises: how well do they comply with the demands of the ISO standard. The limitations of today´s LCA methodology are discussed as well as possible improvements. The results of these studies are discussed in seminars.

A project includes the performance of a broad life cycle assessment. The results of the projects are presented and discussed at the final seminar.

Literature
Rydh, CJ, Lindahl, M & Tingström, J: Livscykelanalys, en metod för miljöbedömning av produkter och tjänster. Lund: Studentlitteratur 2003.
Compendium.
Due to rapid changes in the field the list may be revised during the semester.