“Fundamental changes in consumption and production patterns are needed”, this is what was highlighted at the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) in Johannesburg in 2002. Ongoing discussions in international fora confirm that more systematic management of product and material life cycle, i.e. life-cycle management (LCM), can accelerate the shift towards more sustainable patterns of consumption and production.
The aim of this document is to present background information for a more “popular” introductory guide to LCM which will be produced in the coming months and is – together with an accompanied slide show - intended to be used to promote life cycle thinking globally and be basis for various training activities.
Various individuals and groups of individuals involved in the LCM Task Forces of the Life Cycle Initiative did write the chapters of this document. The names of the authors are listed on the back of the front page, and their affiliations mentioned in the Appendix. Due to the diverse contributions, the various chapters are inhomogeneous in size, layout and readiness. We have tried to include as many illustrations and case studies as possible.