Life cycle inventory

Life cycle inventory (LCI) is the second step in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), following scope definition. LCI involves collecting data on the inputs and outputs of the system being analysed, as well as the environmental impacts of those inputs and outputs. The data is then organised into an inventory of the system, which can be used to quantify the system's environmental impacts.

The main LCI databases that are commonly used in LCA are:

• ecoinvent

• GaBi

• Agri-footprint

• US LCI Database

• ELCD

• Australian LCI Database

These databases contain data on a wide range of materials, processes, and products, making it easier for LCA practitioners to conduct their analyses. However, it's important to note that the quality and completeness of the data can vary between databases and between different data sets within the same database. Therefore, it's important to carefully select the appropriate data sources for each analysis.