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Environmental footprint quantification and optimization methods for digital poster design based on life cycle
1College of Art and Design, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xian, China.
Plos One
|June 12, 2026
Summary
Digital poster systems have significant environmental impacts, primarily from distribution and display operations. Optimization strategies can reduce climate change impact by 28.6%, promoting genuine sustainability in digital design.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Digital Media Studies
- Sustainable Design
Background:
- Digital poster design is a prevalent visual communication tool.
- Its environmental sustainability is often assumed but poorly quantified.
- Understanding the lifecycle impacts is crucial for responsible implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and apply a specialized life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology for digital poster systems.
- To quantify the environmental footprint across all lifecycle stages.
- To identify key impact areas and optimization strategies.
Main Methods:
- A novel LCA framework was created, covering design, distribution, operation, and data deletion.
- A six-month case study with a digital marketing agency was conducted using real-time monitoring.
- Dynamic data collection and workload-specific assessments were employed.
Main Results:
- Total carbon emissions were 7.45 kg CO₂-eq per functional unit.
- Distribution infrastructure and display operations accounted for 89% of lifecycle impacts.
- Optimization strategies reduced climate change impact by 28.6%.
Conclusions:
- Digital poster systems have quantifiable environmental impacts that challenge assumptions of inherent sustainability.
- Targeted optimization, focusing on data center PUE and operational efficiencies, can significantly reduce environmental footprints.
- This methodology supports the digital design industry's move towards verifiable environmental responsibility.
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