Translating product specifications into environmental evidence - Carbon Footprint Models explained on the example of a netbook, a consumer laptop and an ultrabook

In a complex industry such as the electronics sector Life Cycle Assessments are still challenging. This holds true in particular for small and medium-sized enterprises with rarely any knowledge in LCA and limited resources to undertake comprehensive LCA studies. This paper describes the approach of the FP7 funded project LCA to go, which developed simplified online tools for SMEs to assess products from a selection of sectors on their own. The webtools build on embedded LCA data models and a translation of environmental impacts (Key Environmental Performance Indicators) into the technical terms found typically in the specification of computer products. As this spec has to be defined by a computer assembler anyway, he is aware of almost all the required entry data. This approach is demonstrated by establishing 3 benchmark laptop products, which can be used by SMEs to compare own designs with conventional laptops. Chosen benchmarks are a netbook, a consumer laptop 15,6? and a business ultrabook 14?. The paper outlines the methodology and shows quantified results for these 3 benchmark products. Some remaining challenges will be discussed, such as product lifetime and modelling end-of-life. This approach is not intended to replace a detailed LCA or carbon footprint study compliant with ISO 14040 or 14067, but has to be understood as an entry-level for SMEs to Life Cycle Assessments.