A product’s weight is the foundation of its environmental impact calculation. Because a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a mass-based analysis, the more a product weighs, the more resources were required to create it, and the higher its environmental impact will generally be.
This is why declaring accurate weights is critical for an accurate result. It allows our system to calculate the resources used and the impacts generated by each component, giving you a true picture of your product’s total footprint.
Why weight is a critical factor
- Accuracy: The final impact scores are directly proportional to the declared weight. An accurate weight ensures a credible and realistic assessment. For example, a 2.5 kg set of cotton bedsheets will naturally have a much higher impact than a 200 g cotton t-shirt.
- Hotspot identification: By declaring the weight of each material component, you can see which parts of your product contribute most to its total impact. The heaviest component is often the largest contributor, making it a key area to focus on for sustainability improvements.
How to declare weights in the Traceability Form
You can declare weights at both the total article and individual material level.
1. Total article weight
This is the total weight of the finished product. The most accurate method is to weigh a final sample on a scale and enter the value in kilograms (kg).
- What if I don’t have a sample to weigh? If the exact weight is unknown, our system can provide an estimated weight based on our database of similar product types. Simply select the product category, and an average weight will be used as a starting point.
2. Individual material weights
For the most precise analysis, you should declare the weight of each component that makes up the final article. You have two options:
- By weight (kg): If you have a technical sheet with the exact weight of each material, enter that value directly in kilograms.
- By percentage (%): If you know the total article weight but not the exact weight of each part, you can distribute the weight by percentage. Your estimate should be based on your knowledge of the materials and the product’s construction.
- Example: Main Fabric: 80%, Lining: 15%, Trimmings: 5%.
Providing a detailed weight breakdown is the best way to gain deep insights into your product’s environmental performance and identify the most effective strategies for improvement.