Understanding Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs)
A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)is a method used to measure the environmental impact of a product or service throughout its entire lifecycle. According to Ecochain, a leading LCA software company, an LCA primarily evaluates carbon emissions and their effects on the environment. While this approach is crucial in addressing climate change, we at Ourlyfe believe there is a missing piece—waste toxicity.
Why Toxicity Matters in Life Cycle Assessments
At Ourlyfe, we recognize that the toxicity of plastics is just as significant as carbon emissions. Plastic waste is found in human tissue, ecosystems, and even our food chain, posing serious health risks. Research has shown that plastic chemicals, such as BPA (Bisphenol A) and phthalates, act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormone systems in both men and women. These chemicals have been linked to fertility issues, hormone imbalances, and broader health concerns.
To learn more about the dangers of plastic toxicity, visit Global Plastic Treaty or watch Plastic People on SBS On Demand (Australia).
The Hidden Environmental Cost of Plastic
Beyond toxicity, single-use plastics significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Since plastics are fossil fuel-derived, their extraction and production generate vast amounts of carbon emissions. While recycling plastic can reduce emissions by 30-50%, it is not a sustainable solution. Plastic degrades with each recycling cycle, eventually breaking down into microplastics and nanoplastics, which pollute our planet indefinitely.
Moreover, developed countries like the USA and Australia export their plastic waste to developing nations, which often lack the infrastructure to process it safely. This practice, known as waste colonialism, disproportionately harms these regions by polluting their environments and threatening local livelihoods.
Ourlyfe’s Commitment to a New LCA Approach
While we continue to monitor our carbon footprint through traditional Life Cycle Assessments, we are pioneering a new LCA model that also evaluates the impact of plastic toxicity. By creating a plastic-free powder hand wash, we aim to help address the health crisis of plastic waste while promoting a more sustainable future for both our planet and our bodies.
Join Us in Rethinking LCAs for a Healthier Future At Ourlyfe, we believe in pushing the boundaries of sustainability. We invite you to join us on our mission to create a future where sustainability means not just reducing carbon emissions, but also eliminating toxic waste from our daily lives.
For updates on our Plastic Free journey and sustainability initiatives, follow Ourlyfe on Instagram, Tiktok and Youtube @ourlyfe.co, or sign up below for our first customer gifts and special offers!
