Course Description:
Ecolabeling—a voluntary method of certifying environmentally friendly products—has increased in popularity due to growing global concern for protecting the environment and consumer requests for products with lower environmental footprints. Ecolabels can also communicate complex scientific information, such as the results of a life cycle assessment (LCA), in terms that can be understood by consumers. This educational session will discuss how ecolabels are verified, types of ecolabels, and how different ecolabels convey scientific information. The presenters will also cover best practices for communicating LCA results and raising awareness to avoid greenwashing. Then, the speakers will present a benchmarking LCA case study to determine whether a particular reusable glass or steel bottle is environmentally preferable to another, and participants will test their assumptions and apply rigorous sustainability by developing a simple benchmarking LCA and developing product models. This session will demonstrate how LCA is essential for evidence-based decision-making.

Contact Hours:
1 Contact Hour

Presentation Date:
09/28/2021

Presenters:
Elisabeth Luther, Yordas Group
Rucha Kolte, Yordas Group
Giselle Vincett, Yordas Limited