The topic is life cycle impact assessment and the area of the topic is Case Study

The topic is life cycle impact assessment and the area of the topic is environmental impact assessment - Case Study Example This effect occur at all stages of a life cycle of a product. From the time a material is extracted from the source through to the processing, manufacturing, transportation, and finally recycling or disposal stage. This effect may be direct, involving emissions such as those produced by automobiles usage, or indirect involving impact of water ways from electricity production used during the manufacturing. One of the methodologies commonly used is life cycle assessment (LCA), which both involves direct and indict effect of processes and products. LCA has been confirmed to be useful in making consistent and objective environmental assessments. This concept has been broadened by the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry to include the environmental impact and improvement phases, and the inventory. Studies have demonstrated the use Life Cycle impact Assessment (LCA) methods to analyse potential impact of various process on the environment. Lithium (Li-ion) batteries, often used in hybrid and electric vehicles to power plug-in have shown some promise of â€Å"fuelling† these hybrid and electric vehicles and help reduce emitting of greenhouse gas. However, there are some few notable areas in these Li-ion batteries that need to be improved in order to reduce possible public health and environmental impact. This is according to the â€Å"cradle to grave† study, which was conducted by the Abt Associates for the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The study, which was conducted through a partnership involving the U.S. Department of Energy, EPA, academicians, and Li-ion battery industry, was the first LCA (Life circle assessment) to collect and use data given by Li-ion battery manufacturers, recyclers and suppliers. The main purpose was identifying materials and processes within the life cycle of Lion battery that could largely contribute impacts on environmental