From Data Gaps to Insight: How iLOQ Built In-House LCA Capability

 

Company Overview

iLOQ Oy is revolutionising secure access to buildings by replacing mechanical locking systems with digital and mobile access management solutions. Their innovative electronic locks operate without batteries or cables, combining security with sustainability.


Challenge: Lacking Product-Level Environmental Insight

As customer and regulatory pressure for transparency grew, iLOQ’s team faced a frustrating reality: they didn’t have the data they needed. Clients were asking for product-specific emissions data, partners were requesting proof for sustainability claims, and reporting requirements were getting tougher. The team lacked detailed insight into their products’ true environmental footprint, and outsourcing every assessment wasn’t a cost-effective solution. Beyond the financial aspect, they wanted to own their R&D process and build knowledge internally, rather than depending on external consultants for answers.

Krista Huttu, from iLOQ’s sustainability team, felt the gap keenly. Each new request for data meant delays, guesswork, and dependence on external experts. Without in-house Life Cycle Assessment knowledge, she couldn’t easily answer questions like “Where do most emissions come from?” or “Which design choices actually make a difference?” They wanted to change that, and take control of their data and use LCA not just for compliance, but as a strategic tool for innovation.

Why iLOQ Chose Environmental Impacts Academy

To bridge that gap, iLOQ turned to the Hands-On LCA Training by Environmental Impacts Academy, which is designed to help companies build internal capability fast. Krista had already tried to study LCA on her own, but found it difficult to make progress without a clear structure and guidance.

That’s why the program immediately stood out to her: it offered practical, step-by-step learning, not just theory. The goal is to move from zero to confident in conducting LCAs independently and to embed this knowledge into iLOQ’s R&D and sustainability strategy.

Solution: Hands-On LCA Training for Real Products

During the training, Krista completed an LCA for a lock cylinder and escutcheon, comparing different materials and manufacturing alternatives. The combination of theory and hands-on modeling gave her a strong understanding of the LCA process. By visualising the results in the software, she could clearly identify which parts of the product lifecycle contributed the most to the environmental footprint. These insights were both surprising and highly valuable.

I especially enjoyed modeling the LCA on the software, as it was visually easy to follow and added understanding about where the environmental impacts arise from.
— Krista Huttu, iLOQ Oy

By visualising the data, Krista and her team could pinpoint which stages of the product lifecycle contributed most to emissions — insights that were both surprising and actionable.

Results: From Guesswork to Data-Driven Product Decisions

The project was an eye-opener. iLOQ discovered unexpected environmental hotspots and gained a clear roadmap for improvement. Krista now has the skills and confidence to lead future assessments, ensuring iLOQ can own and scale its sustainability data across its entire product portfolio.

What began as a need for data transparency became a foundation for innovation.

Krista shared that she learned more during the first two weeks of training than in two years of trying to study on her own. The intensive training format helped her focus fully on the theory and practical exercises, setting aside her other work to immerse herself in understanding the full LCA process.

This first step laid the foundation for integrating LCA into their R&D and product strategy. iLOQ is now planning its next steps, from selecting the right software to expanding LCA expertise across teams.

Ready to Uncover the Hidden Impacts in Your Products?

iLOQ’s story shows how the right training can turn sustainability goals into measurable results. With hands-on guidance, they built internal capability, reduced reliance on consultants, and uncovered insights that drive smarter product design.

If you want your team to gain the same confidence, to own your data, strengthen your R&D, and uncover hidden environmental impacts. Let’s talk. 👉 Book a meeting to explore how our Hands-On LCA Training can help your company build in-house expertise.

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