What is the last stage of the process life cycle?

The last stage of the process life cycle is decommissioning. This stage involves the systematic dismantling and removal of a facility or process at the end of its useful life. It encompasses ensuring that all equipment and materials are safely disposed of or recycled, that the site is cleaned, and that any potential hazards are mitigated. Decommissioning is critical to protect the environment and public safety after a facility is no longer in operation.

In contrast, operation refers to the active phase where the process is running, maintenance is focused on keeping the operation running efficiently throughout its lifetime, and design relates to the development of the process before it is brought into operation. Each of these previous stages is essential in its own right but occurs before the ultimate conclusion of a process life cycle, which is represented by decommissioning.