What is idea behind the Open Source LCI?

LCI stands for Life Cycle Inventory.  When the life cycle assessments of various products are performed, the information will be captured and retained for future use.  ASC plans to develop a comprehensive collection of this information and place it into an open source database to be used, augmented and edited by qualified research professionals for use in further studies.  This database will serve as a powerful tool by which further research can be conducted.  Previous assessments may provide a template for additional related research.  Carbon studies currently being conducted for various products could provide insight into a broader segment of the industry.  LCI can be expanded beyond carbon to include other impacted resources such as water, soil erosion, toxins other than greenhouse gases released to the environment, or the social ramifications.