Life Cycle Assessment Framework for complex Industrial Machinery
The project consists of a framework to assess the environmental impacts of complex industrial machinery using a simplified Life Cycle Assessment method, and a case study to demonstrate the utility of the framework.
Background
Industrial machinery sector produces all types of tools and machines used in other sectors like construction, manufacturing, textiles, electronic appliances, etc. EU-27 is the second largest producer of industrial machinery accounting for 24% of its total global production in 2019 with a current turnover above 700 billion euros. However, the machinery sector is a resource intensive sector. Nowadays, the increased environmental awareness and emergence of tougher environmental restrictions to curb climate change, have pushed manufacturers to cut down their emissions. The industrial sector alone accounts for 21% of the total greenhouse gas emissions of EU-27. The industrial machinery sector, being an inevitable supplier to the industry, has a huge role to play to achieve the goal of minimizing harmful environmental emissions.
Aims and objectives
The main objective of this research project is to propose a framework to assess the environmental impacts of complex industrial machinery using a simplified Life Cycle Assessment method and demonstrate the utility of the framework through a case study.
Project plan
Applied interdisciplinarity
The work is done in close collaboration with the industry to assess the environmental impacts of the products. The results of the impact assessment can potentially result in modifications in product design, alternative materials and manufacturing processes to minimize the emissions.
KTH Collaborations
Duration
June 2021 – June 2022
Project participants
