Lowering the environmental impact of dishwashing and laundry in Europe: a LCA perspective

Abstract This study presents findings from three Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) studies conducted in European markets, conformant with ISO 14040/44 standards, to evaluate the environmental footprints of automatic dishwashing (ADW), hand dishwashing (HDW), and laundry detergents. The primary objectives were to identify key impact areas and compare current consumer practices with more sustainable product usage. Across all product categories, the in-use phase has the largest environmental impact, with global warming potential (a proxy for carbon footprint) averaging 77 % for ADW detergents, 93 % for HDW detergents and 61 % for laundry detergents. This impact is strongly associated with the energy required to heat water, which is influenced by each country’s energy mix i.e., fossil fuels, renewable sources, or nuclear power. Sustainable usage practices, such as reducing wash temperatures and employing energy-efficient cycles in both dishwashing and laundry, present significant potential for lowering the environmental impact of these common household tasks. Future scenarios for laundry products indicate that, despite the projected greening of the electricity grid by 2025 and 2030, the in-use phase will remain the primary driver of environmental impact. The findings underscore the need for a holistic approach to assessing environmental impacts, with emphasis placed on reducing the in-use phase via the promotion of sustainable consumer behaviors through education and innovation.