The role of Life Cycle Assessment in preparing built environment students for a career in industry.

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is growing in importance and significance since its introduction to the construction industry in the late 1990s. Built environment students (those studying for a degree in Architectural Technology, Building Services Engineering, Building Surveying, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying and Real Estate Management) are starting to use LCA as an integral tool in decision making. The wider industry has used LCA for many years and the built environment is lagging behind. This paper details the role of LCA and key stages of learning required through a typical degree program. In addition, the paper examines how sustainability is currently taught and provides recommendations for a national change through the introduction of LCA. From learning through to innovation, the use of LCA has significant importance in the built environment as low carbon design and zero carbon homes become mandatory