Abstract: The basic concept, methodologies and focuses of industrial ecology were summarized and reviewed.It is suggested that industrial ecology is a comprehensive and interdiscipline applied science, which deals with the relationship between human industrial activities and natural environments.The whole procedure of industrial activities, including raw material extraction and production, product manufacturing, use and disposal, is qualitatively described and quantitatively modeled, based on the consideration of industrial metabolism, life-cycle assessment and region ecological construction.Industrial ecology aims at the long-term benefits of human and ecosystems, as well as the unity of economic, ecological and social effects.

Key words: Industrial ecology, Industrial metabolism, Life-cycle assessment