While the need for, and definition of, environmental performance has been debated, there is a growing consensus that the expanding global industrial society cannot sustain itself for more than another 100 years unless significant, systemic environmental improvements are made. Architecting Heuristics Rechtin and Maier describe four methodologies for developing systems architectures. Normative methodologies are based on standards and codes. Rational methods employ the principles of mathematics and science. Participative methods engage the customer, user and other stakeholders.
Heuristic methods apply experience, insight and nonlinear thinking.
Rechtin and Maier argue that heuristics are particularly valuable tools when architecting highly complex systems. They catalogue over 180 heuristics from numerous sources into such categories as systems scoping and planning, modeling, aggregating, partitioning, integrating and rearchitecting. You will need them once the market starts to respond. What constitutes environmental performance depends on the desired objectives. An LCA assessment requires detailed knowledge of material and energy flows starting with raw material extraction and ending with final product disposal.