The role of life cycle assessment in supporting sustainable agri-food systems: A review of the challenges

Abstract Life cycle thinking is increasingly seen as a key concept for ensuring a transition towards more sustainable production and consumption patterns. As food production systems and consumption patterns are among the leading drivers of impacts on the environment, it is important to assess and improve food-related supply chains as much as possible. Over the years, life cycle assessment has been used extensively to assess agricultural systems and food processing and manufacturing activities, and compare alternatives "from field to fork" and through to food waste management. Notwithstanding the efforts, several methodological aspects of life cycle assessment still need further improvement in order to ensure…

• EC
  European Commission

  Awards: 070201/2015/SI2.705230/SER/ENV.A1, 705230
• DF
  Directorate-General for the Environment

  Award: 070201/2015/SI2.705230/SER/ENV.A1
• JR
  Joint Research Centre