Carbon Footprint Accounting Method for Electromechanical Products Based on Life Cycle Assessment
Addressing the insufficient applicability and accuracy of carbon footprint accounting for electromechanical products due to data gaps, this study proposes an accounting method based on life cycle assessment (LCA). Using LCA as the overall framework with a system boundary of "cradle to gate", the method constructs a carbon footprint accounting approach combining substitution algorithms and correction coefficients for different data missing scenarios from suppliers, manufacturers, and databases. Data quality indicators and Monte Carlo simulation are employed to quantify data quality and uncertainty, while single-factor and multi-factor sensitivity analyses identify key influencing factors. Taking an optical gyrocompass as a case study, the carbon footprints and uncertainties under eight typical data missing scenarios are explored, and robustness checks are conducted on five typical products including transformers, high-speed diesel engines, and wind turbines. As data missing degree deepens, the carbon footprint deviation of the optical gyrocompass increases from 0.05% to 3.03%, and uncertainty rises from 2.65% to 5.45%. Under mixed data missing scenarios, the carbon footprint uncertainties of all five electromechanical products remain below 10%. The method exhibits wide applicability, strong implementability, and high accuracy, effectively supporting carbon footprint accounting for electromechanical products, reducing carbon tariff risks, optimizing emission reduction strategies, and promoting green development.