Which step is NOT part of the life-cycle analysis process?

Life cycle analysis (LCA) is a systematic approach for evaluating the environmental impacts of a product throughout its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal. The process typically encompasses several key stages, including extracting raw materials, manufacturing, distribution, use, and disposal.

While consumer testing can play an important role in product development and market research, it is not traditionally classified as a step within the life-cycle analysis process. LCA focuses primarily on the environmental assessment of a product's life stages and their associated impacts, rather than the effectiveness or market acceptance as measured by consumer testing. This lack of focus on consumer testing within LCA makes it the correct response regarding the question.

In contrast, extracting raw materials, manufacturing, and product disposal are fundamental components of LCA, as they all contribute directly to understanding the product's environmental footprint and resource usage over its life cycle.