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Manual on Product-Oriented Environmental Work Introduction to the seriesA life cycle approach and life cycle assessments are key elements of product-oriented environmental work. Thorough, soundly based methods are needed for life cycle assessment, but they must be simple and easily accessible, and reflect a cradle-to-grave approach. The specific method chosen will depend on various factors, including the objective, the target group, possible publication of results, etc. However, all life cycle assessments should preferably produce a robust result that provides a sound basis for the decisions that must subsequently be taken. In the last ten years, grants have been provided for a number of projects on life cycle assessments and a life cycle approach. In continuation of that, grants are now being made for new projects under "Programme for Cleaner Products etc. 1998-2002". The main results of the projects on life cycle assessments are being published as a "mini-series" under the Danish Environmental Protection Agency's series "Environment News". As the projects reach completion they will supplement the results of the EDIP project from 1996. These tools and experiences, together with advice, help and guidelines, will together provide a good basis for most applications of life cycle assessments. Life cycle assessment is such a wide-ranging area that it is hardly possible to cover all situations and uses in one book. The Danish EPA hopes that this "mini-series" will provide companies, organisations, authorities and others with the knowledge required to base their environmental work on life cycle principles. Danish Environmental Protection Agency, September 2000
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