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FINDING SUSTAINABLE PATHWAYS

OUR PROCESS

Our process helps Canada achieve sustainable development solutions that integrate environmental and economic considerations to ensure the lasting prosperity and well-being of our nation.

RESEARCH

We rigorously research and conduct high quality analysis on issues of sustainable development. Our thinking is original and thought provoking.

CONVENE

We convene opinion leaders and experts from across Canada around our table to share their knowledge and diverse perspectives. We stimulate debate and integrate polarities. We create a context for possibilities to emerge.

ADVISE

We generate ideas and provide realistic solutions to advise governments, Parliament and Canadians. We proceed with resolve and optimism to bring Canada’s economy and environment closer together.

Home / 2.3 Examples of Life Cycle Approaches

2.3 Examples of Life Cycle Approaches

Canada’s Opportunity: Adopting Life Cycle Approaches for Sustainable Development

 

Case studies are included throughout the report to illustrate the variety of ways in which Life Cycle Approaches are used in the private and public sectors. A summary of the case studies is presented in Table 1 (next page). The table shows the following: the name of the initiative, type of Life Cycle Approach used, associated risk or opportunity for Canada, main sectors affected, implementing entity, and the location of the case study in the report. The categories used to classify the associated risk or opportunity to Canada are elaborated on in Chapter 4.

TABLE 1. SUMMARY OF LIFE CYCLE APPROACHES CASE STUDIES IN REPORT

table 1

2.4 CONCLUSION

 

The systems’ perspective provided by Life Cycle Approaches, which takes into account environmental, social, and financial considerations, is needed for better decision making in the 21st century – in both industry and government. Life Cycle Approaches cover a wide-spectrum of applications. They include different concepts, programs, tools, and data designed to meet a variety of needs and uses.

The NRT’s Life Cycle Approach framework provides a common understanding on which to base a life cyclerelated dialogue and enhance uptake in Canada. Multiple linkages and relationships exist between the various types of Life Cycle Approaches, but it is clear that life cycle data and information provide the foundation for the adoption of Life Cycle Approach concepts, programs, tools, and data and information. Understanding what Life Cycle Approaches are and where they can be most usefully applied is the first step to assessing their benefit to business and government.