A systematic set of procedures for compiling and examining the inputs and outputs of materials and energy consumed within a process, and the associated environmental impacts directly attributable to the functioning of a product or service throughout its life cycle. It takes a cradle-to-grave approach, starting from the origin of the raw materials from natural resources such as oil wells or extraction from ores, and follows them through transformation into useful products, the use by the consumer, recycling where possible, and eventual disposal. Within each step of the life cycle, waste is created. It is therefore more useful than just concentrating on minimizing waste since problems often lie elsewhere within the life cycle.

The components of a life cycle analysis include the life cycle inventory. These involve a complete resource requirement to be identified in terms of materials and energy. The life cycle impact assessment characterizes and assesses the effects of the environmental emissions. The life cycle improvement analysis is used to quantify the life cycle inventory and import, and is used to assess possible environmental improvements that can be made.