Analysis should include
- describing linear (i.e., cradle-to-grave) and cyclical (i.e., cradle-to-cradle) lifelines of products and materials
- defining
- linear lifecycle–considers the product or material from the time of acquisition to disposal.
- cyclical lifecycle–considers the product or material from the time of its acquisition to its being reused, remanufactured, and/or recycled.
Examples of products to analyze may include oil, water, soil, compost, biological waste, cell phones, tennis shoes, tires, product containers, and refrigerators.
Teacher Resources:
Process/Skill Questions:
- How does the cradle-to-grave approach handle the end-of-life stage of a product?
- How does the cradle-to-cradle approach change the cradle-to-grave approach?
- What are the environmental benefits of a cradle-to-cradle product life-cycle?
- What is remanufacturing?
- How can a given product be redesigned to become reusable?
- Why is it important to think about a product's life cycle?
- What is more economically efficient for a business, a linear or cyclical approach?