life-cycle assessment (lca) is a systematic, phased approach to assessing the environmental aspects and potential impacts that are associated with a product, process or service. “life cycle” refers to the major activities connected with the product's life-span, from its manufacture, use, and maintenance, to its final disposal, and also including the acquisition of raw material required to manufacture the product. thus a method for assessing the environmental impacts of freshwater consumption was developed. it specifically looks at the damage to three areas of protection: human health, ecosystem quality, and resources. the consideration of water consumption is crucial where water-intensive products (for example agricultural goods) are concerned that need to therefore undergo a life-cycle assessment. in addition, regional assessments are equally as necessary as the impact of water use depends on its location. in short, lca is important as it identifies the impact of water use in certain products, consumers, companies, nations, etc. which can help reduce the amount of water used.