How does Apple use LCA?
• A: Apple uses five steps when conducting a product LCA: 1. Data collection starts with measuring the power consumed by a product while it is running under a simulated use scenario. Different scenarios are used for different product lines. For example, we assume a four-year average use period for Mac computers. To be conservative, we also assume an office scenario use pattern for every computer shipped and apply that use pattern to 365 days of use per year. For handheld products, such as iPod and iPhone, we assume a three-year use period. For these products, charging patterns are defined according to a “power user”, which we define as intense daily use over the three-year period. More information on our product power modes is provided in our Product Environmental Reports. 2. The second step is a part-by-part measurement of the entire product. This helps us accurately measure the size and weight of the components and materials in the product. Since a single product can contain several
