7. Conclusions

In this article, we have presented the methodological principles and some of the methods used in the first two stages of LCA: defining the objectives and scope of the study, and analyzing the inventory.

Also by means of the inventory example considered, we have shown that, even when inventory results are presented in the desired format, interpretation remains difficult and conclusions cannot always be drawn. If this is the case, it should be remembered that the conclusions drawn from inventories are specific to the product, process or activity analyzed. They are valid only in the particular situation studied, and should not be extrapolated to other cases. An example of incorrect use of results is the willingness to use an inventory to compare base materials instead of products. Consider an inventory comparing a steel car part with an aluminum car part on the basis...