Environmental life cycle analysis (sometimes referred to as life cycle assessment), or LCA, provides a mechanism for systematically evaluating the environmental impacts linked to a product or process and can aid in guiding process or product improvement efforts. LCA-based information also provides insights into the environmental impacts of raw material and product choices, and maintenance and end-of-product-life strategies. The use of LCA is increasing because of the systematic nature of LCA and its power as an evaluative tool. LCA is also gaining recognition as environmental performance becomes more and more important in society. It is likely that LCA will soon become widely used within American industry and by those involved in crafting national and regional environmental policy.