LIFE CYCLE DESIGN, A STRATEGY TO REDUCE ENVIRONMENTAL FOOTPRINT IN AGRI-FOOD SYSTEMS

The agri-food system is at the centre of global challenges and is under constant pressure to balance ecosystem protection, economic sustainability, and social equity. In the face of climate change, resource scarcity, and the urgent need for more sustainable production and consumption patterns, methodologies such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Design (LCD) emerge as crucial tools. This thesis addresses the complex dynamics of sustainability in the agri-food system, exploring innovative approaches that integrate LCA, eco-design, and LCD to support the transition to more resilient and sustainable food systems. The research defines a comprehensive methodological framework to address the main challenges and opportunities related to promoting systemic sustainability. Starting by exploring the theoretical foundations of LCA and eco-design, the study investigates how LCD, as an integrated approach that builds upon these two methodologies, can drive sustainable innovation, transforming isolated eco-design practices into holistic solutions. A series of case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of integrating LCA and eco-desing into LCD in different manufacturing contexts, highlighting the potential to solve sector-specific challenges and generate significant change. Another main contribution is a critical analysis of current tools and technologies for the application of LCA in the agri-food system, which revealed the limitations of existing approaches in addressing the complex needs of the food industry. The development of innovative and standardised tools, such as the MAPPER Eco-design LCA tool© and the MS4LCA© proposed by Quota Sette Srl (the co-funding company of the PhD project), demonstrates how tailor-made solutions, supported by scientific methodologies and best management consulting practices, can offer concrete strategies to companies. These tools not only improve the adaptability of LCA but also bridge the gap between theoretical potential and practical application, enabling companies to achieve their sustainability goals. The thesis also introduces the first interlaboratory study in LCA, a pioneering initiative that quantifies sources of variability in LCA results and improves the reliability of practitioners' outputs globally. By identifying inconsistencies and promoting standardised practices, this study lays the foundation for more consistent and credible applications of LCA, fostering trust among stakeholders and increasing the credibility of sustainability metrics. In conclusion, this research underlines the transformative potential of integrating LCA, eco-design and LCD in the agri-food system. It highlights the need for systemic approaches, customised tools, and practitioner training to achieve significant sustainability outcomes. The findings contribute to the growing literature on eco-design and LCA, offering practical recommendations for their application and suggesting avenues for future research. This work aspires to support the transition to a more sustainable food system, in line with global sustainability goals, ensuring resilience for future generations.