Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats analysis of carbon footprint indicator and derived recommendations. (10th May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Alvarez, Sergio; Carballo-Penela, Adolfo; Mateo-Mantecón, Ingrid; Rubio, Agustín
• Is Part Of: Journal of cleaner production. Volume 121(2016:May)
• Page Start: 238
• Page End: 247
• Publication Date: 2016-05-10
• Subjects: Corporate carbon footprint -- Integrated approach -- ISO 14067 -- ISO 14069 -- Product carbon footprint -- SWOT analysis; Factory and trade waste -- Management -- Periodicals; Manufactures -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; Déchets industriels -- Gestion -- Périodiques; Usines -- Aspect de l'environnement -- Périodiques; 628.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2016.02.028
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0959-6526

Abstract

Abstract: Demand for a low carbon footprint may be a key factor in stimulating innovation, while prompting politicians to promote sustainable consumption. However, the variety of methodological approaches and techniques used to quantify life-cycle emissions prevents their successful and widespread implementation. This study aims to offer recommendations for researchers, policymakers and practitioners seeking to achieve a more consistent approach for carbon footprint analysis. This assessment is made on the basis of a comprehensive Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats or SWOT Analysis of the carbon footprint indicator. It is carried out bringing together the collective experience from the Carbonfeel Project following the Delphi technique principles. The results include the detailed SWOT Analysis from which specific recommendations to cope with the threats and the weaknesses are identified. In particular, results highlight the importance of the integrated approach to combine organizational and product carbon footprinting in order to achieve a more standardized and consistent approach. These recommendations can therefore serve to pave the way for the development of new, specific and highly-detailed guidelines. Highlights: We apply the SWOT analysis on the carbon footprint indicator. We discus recommendations for the standardization of CF analysis. We elaborate guidelines for integrated approach to meet new standards.