Low carbon manufacturing: Characterization, theoretical models and implementation

Abstract

Today, the rising of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is becoming the crucial factor for global warming especially in industrial sectors. Therefore, the research to reduce carbon intensity and enhance resources utilization in manufacturing industry is starting to be a timely topic. Low carbon manufacturing (LCM) can be referred to the manufacturing process that produces low carbon emissions intensity and uses energy and resources efficiently and effectively during the process as well. In this paper, the concepts of LCM are discussed and the LCM associated theoretical models, characterization and implementation perspective explored. The paper is structured in four parts. Firstly, the conception of low carbon manufacturing is critically reviewed then the characterization of low carbon manufacturing is discussed and formulated. Third part, the theoretical models are developed with initial models by using the theory from supply chain modeling and linear programming solutions (LP). The models show the relationship of resource utilizations and related variables for LCM in two levels: shop-floor and extended supply chain. Finally, the pilot implementations of LCM are discussed with two approaches: desktop or micro machines and devolved manufacturing. The paper is concluded with further discussions on the potential and application of LCM for manufacturing industry.