The Limitations of a Carbon-Only Approach

A PCF calculation requires about 97% the same work as a full Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), only the software and scope differ.
That means the extra effort for a full LCA is minimal, but the value is exponentially higher.

With a PCF you typically:

• Cover only 20–30% of total environmental impact, leaving 70–80% out of view.
• Risk making incorrect R&D or procurement decisions based on incomplete data.
• Meet fewer customer and regulatory requirements, as many already demand full LCAs or EPDs.
• Miss alignment with new EU frameworks like the Digital Product Passport, CSRD, and Green Claims regulations.

The LCA Advantage

An LCA delivers a complete picture of a product’s environmental performance, including carbon, in one workflow.
It not only meets all customer reporting needs but also ensures compliance with current and upcoming legislation.

With LiveCycle, an LCA:

·         Automatically includes a PCF, so you don’t lose carbon data.

·         Provides insights across all impact categories, not just CO₂.

·         Enables easy creation of LCA reports and integration into reporting standards.

·         Prevents rework and saves time and budget in the long run.

The Smart Move Forward

A PCF might look simpler in the short term, but at product level it rarely adds real value on its own.
A full LCA gives broader insights, meets every requirement, and ensures you invest effort once, efficiently and future-proof.