Question

The following block diagram highlights the typical phases of the life cycle of a product. In the figure, ‘P’, ‘Q’, and ‘R’ represent various possible scopes of analyses in life cycle assessment. Which of the following statements is true? 

• A. ‘R’ represents cradle-to-grave analysis.
• B. ‘P’ represents cradle-to-gate analysis.
• C. ‘Q’ represents gate-to-grave analysis.
• D. ‘R’ represents gate-to-gate analysis.

Hint:

In life cycle assessment, the scope of analysis determines which stages of a product's life cycle are included, ranging from cradle-to-gate (limited) to cradle-to-grave (comprehensive).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

In life cycle assessment (LCA), there are different scopes that define the extent of the analysis: 

- Cradle-to-grave analysis includes all stages from raw material extraction to the disposal of the product, making it the most comprehensive. 
- Cradle-to-gate analysis assesses the product from raw material extraction up to the factory gate (excluding the use and end-of-life stages). 
- Gate-to-gate analysis refers to the analysis between specific gates of the production process, such as the factory gate to another production stage. 

In this diagram, ‘R’ represents cradle-to-grave analysis because it spans the entire life cycle, from material extraction to the end of life. 
Therefore, the correct answer is (A).