The Eco Index framework is modular, allowing implementation of the tool within the life cycle stages and level of detail appropriate for each company.

The Eco Index uses environmental guidelines, environmental performance indicators and environmental footprint metrics to assess the impacts within six product life cycle stages:

• Materials
• Packaging
• Product Manufacturing and Assembly
• Transport and Distribution
• Use and Service
• End of Life

A comparative scoring system at the indicator level provides standardized levels of achievement; a data capture tool at the metric level provides a means to collect quantitative data within seven critical “lenses” (areas of impact):

• Land Use Intensity
• Water
• Waste
• Biodiversity
• Chemistry/Toxics – People
• Chemistry/Toxics – Environment
• Energy Use/Greenhouse Gas Emissions

At present, the Eco Index does not provide an overarching score or ranking for finished products. However, this may be incorporated as the Index undergoes further development.