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A carbon footprint simulation model for the cork oak sector
Martha Demertzi1, Joana Amaral Paulo2, Luís Arroja1
1Center for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Environment and Planning, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
The Science of the Total Environment
|May 29, 2016
Summary
A new simulation model (CCFM) calculates the carbon footprint of the cork oak sector. The agglomeration industry is the largest contributor, but including forest carbon sequestration significantly reduces the overall footprint.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Life Cycle Assessment
- Sustainable Forestry
Background:
- The environmental impact of the cork oak sector requires detailed assessment.
- Existing methods may not fully capture the complexities of cork production and its lifecycle.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel simulation model (CCFM) for calculating the carbon footprint of the cork oak sector.
- To identify key stages and products contributing to the sector's carbon footprint.
- To propose environmental management strategies for the cork industry.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive life cycle assessment approach was adopted, encompassing forest management, manufacturing, product use, and end-of-life stages.
- The simulation model allows for variable inputs regarding cork type, quantity, transport distances, and end-of-life scenarios.
- The model was applied to the Portuguese cork oak sector as a case study.
Main Results:
- The agglomeration industry, primarily due to resin production, was identified as the carbon footprint hotspot.
- Incorporating biogenic carbon emissions and forest carbon sequestration substantially decreased the calculated carbon footprint.
- Optimizing end-of-life management (reducing landfill, increasing recycling/incineration) and improving industry emission factors can yield significant reductions.
Conclusions:
- The developed CCFM provides a valuable tool for environmental management within the cork oak sector.
- Addressing the agglomeration industry's impact and enhancing end-of-life management are crucial for reducing the sector's carbon footprint.
- Accounting for biogenic carbon cycles is essential for an accurate environmental assessment of cork products.
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