Once a product is finished, it travels. Whether by cargo ship, plane, or semi-truck, the global supply chain is a massive contributor to the total footprint. The "miles per product" metric is a key focus for companies looking to localize production and reduce their logistics impact. 4. The Product Use Phase
Decomposing materials can release methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
Chemical reactions (like those in cement production) that release CO2cap C cap O sub 2 naturally as a byproduct. 3. Distribution and Logistics
Carbon Footprint and the Industrial Life Cycle: Tracking the Impact
For some products, like a wooden chair, the footprint ends at delivery. For others, like a car or a washing machine, the biggest impact happens while the customer is using it. Energy efficiency during this phase is critical to the product's overall life cycle assessment (LCA). 5. End-of-Life: Disposal vs. Circularity What happens when a product is done?