Product Life Cycle Research
Background
A product life cycle tells us about the materials and energy used to make, use, and dispose of the product.When we buy and use products, looking at the life cycle helps us to make good choices that help to protect and preserve our environment.
Instructions
1. Complete the Product Life Cycle Research Plan.
2. Research your product’s life cycle and find out the answers to the following questions:
a) What rocks, minerals, or metals are used to make the product?
b) How is the product made?
c) What environmental impacts may have occurred during the manufacturing of the product?
d) Who benefits from the use of the product, and how do they use it?
e) What choices are there for what happens to the product at the end of its life?
3. Choose one rock or mineral that is used to make your product. Research your choice and find out the answers to the following questions:
a) What are its composition and characteristics?
b) Where is it mined?
c) How is it extracted or processed?
d) Are there any environmental impacts during the mining and extraction process?
e) How is it used in the product?
Record your research.
4. Publish your research. Include in your presentation what choices consumers like you could make to reduce the environmental impact of your product. Use the Publication Checklist.
5. Prepare a short talk on your product’s life cycle, using your published research to share with friends and family.
