What is the LCA method for measuring the carbon footprint?

The Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) is an internationally standardised method used to measure the carbon footprint. The LCA method measures the total environmental impact throughout the life cycle of a product; beginning with the extraction of raw materials, manufacturing processes, transport; as far as consumer use and disposal. The LCA method calculates the carbon footprint of a product regardless of its origin. This would include the carbon footprint of imported inputs such as animal feeds or fertilisers.