Life Cycle Gap Analysis for Product Circularity and Sustainability—a Case Study with Three Different Products

Abstract

This paper aims to demonstrate the applicability and benefits of life cycle gap analyses for systematically integrating circular economy considerations into life cycle assessment. It presents life cycle gap analyses for three entirely different products (rechargeable batteries, T-shirts, plastic bottles), compares the applications and results, and draws conclusions on the usefulness of the method.The case studies reveal life cycle gaps of 54% (plastic bottles), 61% (rechargeable batteries), and 98% (T-shirts), indicating high potential for further circularity improvements in the current life cycle systems of different industries and product groups. At the same time, a potential weakness of the method is underlined. Even considering options to increase circularity, life cycle gaps of at least 45% still exist, raising the question of what measures are really needed in order to achieve product circularity and sustainability. The analysis demonstrates the general applicability of life cycle gap analyses and their contribution to the integration of circular decision-making and life cycle thinking.