For such an analysis, system limits are first defined. A distinction is made, for example, between the “cradle to gate” assessment from production to the factory gate and the “cradle to grave” assessment from production to disposal. Depending on the objective of the study or product type, different limits can be selected.
The VDE Testing and Certification Institute offers LCAs. We conduct these based on the product and additional information provided by the customer. Using tests in the laboratory, very accurate product data can be determined, which is available for the calculation. In this way, the product can be modeled very precisely. Likewise, the material composition can be determined by the examination in the laboratory and adapted accordingly for the calculations. Comparative studies of products with the same functionality are of particular importance because it is possible to keep the system limits and other parameters the same.
In the field of electronics manufacturing, many processes have already been modeled by the VDE Institute in recent years, giving VDE's experts a great deal of experience.
A carbon footprint is always based on an LCA
Various information is required in an LCA. These include, for example, the following areas:
- Procurement of raw materials
- Procurement of individual components
- Supply chain and transportation routes
- Manufacturing processes
- Product usage phase
- Recycling
If the LCA model is evaluated in terms of Global Warming Potential (GWP), the result is a carbon footprint for the product. Global Warming Potential (GWP) represents the overall impact on the climate in terms of CO2 equivalents.
