The International Reference Life Cycle Data System

The European Commission launched on 12 March 2010 a handbook titled The International Reference Life Cycle Data System (ILCD). It is an authoritative guide for policy-makers and business on how to assess the environmental impact of products. Life Cycle Thinking seeks to identify possible improvements to goods and services in the form of lower environmental impacts and reduced use of resources across all life cycle stages. The guidance is part of the Commission's drive to promote more sustainable consumption and production patterns and reduce Europe's environmental footprint.