The Importance of Lifecycle Expectancy in Sustainable Street Furniture

As part of the Astra Carbon Footprint Tracker, we've been delving deeper into each of the six symbols that contribute to our comprehensive ecological ranking system. In this article, we're going to focus on the third symbol: Lifecycle Expectancy. By understanding the significance of a product's lifecycle expectancy, you can make more informed decisions when selecting street furniture that contributes to a sustainable and environmentally friendly project.

Understanding Lifecycle Expectancy

Lifecycle Expectancy, represented by a simple circular arrow  symbol, provides a conservative indication of the minimum expected life of a product. The longer a product is expected to last, the less material waste there will be as replacement products don't need to be manufactured as often.

We classify our products into three Lifecycle Expectancy levels: '6-10 Years', '11-24 Years', and '25+ Years.'  This classification helps our customers choose products that align with their project needs, sustainability goals and budget considerations.

Why is Lifecycle Expectancy Important?

• Reduced Material Waste and Consumption
  Products with longer lifecycles contribute to sustainability by reducing the need for frequent replacements. This reduction in material waste and consumption conserves natural resources and minimises the strain on landfills. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), global material consumption reached 92.1 billion tons in 2017, more than triple the amount consumed in 1970.
• Decreased Carbon Emissions
  The manufacturing sector contributes significantly to global carbon emissions. Longer-lasting products result in fewer emissions generated from the manufacturing, transportation, and disposal processes. By reducing the number of replacements needed, you are also reducing the amount of carbon emissions associated with creating new products.
• Cost Savings
  Investing in products with longer lifecycles can lead to cost savings in the long run. Although the initial investment may be higher, the reduced need for replacements and maintenance results in overall savings for the project.
• Sustainable Project Development
  Considering lifecycle expectancy when selecting street furniture contributes to the overall sustainability of your project. This consideration can help architects and councils achieve their environmental goals and comply with local and international sustainability standards.

Factors Influencing Lifecycle Expectancy

Several factors can influence the lifecycle expectancy of street furniture, including:

• Material Quality
  The quality and durability of materials used in manufacturing the product play a significant role in determining its expected lifespan.
• Manufacturing Processes
  Advanced manufacturing processes and adherence to industry standards contribute to a longer-lasting product.
• Maintenance and Care 
  Proper maintenance and care of the product can significantly extend its lifecycle, ensuring that it remains functional and aesthetically pleasing for years to come.
• Exposure to Elements 
  Products that are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and resist corrosion, fading, and other forms of deterioration are likely to have a longer lifespan.

Conclusion

Lifecycle Expectancy is a crucial factor to consider when selecting sustainable street furniture for your projects. By investing in products with longer lifecycles, you can reduce material waste and consumption, minimise carbon emissions, save on costs, and contribute to a more sustainable project. At Astra Street Furniture, we are committed to providing you with quality, long-lasting products that support your sustainability goals and enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your urban spaces.

To access the Lifestyle Expectancy for any Astra Street Furniture product, visit our website, select a product of interest, and look for the six blue symbols representing the Astra Carbon Footprint Tracker.