2.2. The LCA methodology
Based on the ISO 14040, LCA is regarded as the “compilation and evaluation of the inputs, outputs and potential environmental impacts of a product system throughout its life cycle” [46]. Therefore, LCA is an environmental management tool to assess a product, activity or service at all stages in their life cycle from raw materials acquisition, through processing, manufacturing, distribution, use, possible reuse/recycling and on to final waste management [47], [48] and [49]. The 14000 series of ISO standards comprising the standard 14001 on Environmental Management Systems, as well as a series of standards relating to LCA (the 14040 series) was used in the present study [50]. More specifically, the LCA study comprised of four phases: 1) goal and scope definition; 2) inventory analysis; 3) impact assessment and 4) interpretation.