Environmental footprint of supermarket refrigeration: a Life Cycle Assessment study

This thesis embarks on an in-depth Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of supermarket refrigeration systems, a critical yet often overlooked component in the retail sector's environmental footprint. The study meticulously evaluates the entire life cycle of commercial refrigeration cabinets, from raw material extraction to manufacturing, use, and eventual disposal, spotlighting their significant role in the broader context of environmental sustainability. Commencing with an analysis of raw material acquisition, the research delves into the environmental ramifications of extracting and processing the materials used in refrigeration systems. It scrutinizes the energy consumption, emissions, and resource utilization inherent in these initial stages, establishing a foundational understanding of the upstream impacts of these systems. The manufacturing phase is examined next, with a focus on the energy requirements, waste generation, and emissions from production processes. This section highlights the potential for environmental optimization in manufacturing practices, emphasizing the role of sustainable manufacturing in reducing the overall ecological footprint of these systems. Transportation and distribution, critical stages in the life cycle of refrigeration systems, are then explored. The study assesses the environmental impact of shipping components and finished products, considering factors such as transportation modes, fuel consumption, and associated emissions. This analysis underscores the importance of logistics optimization in minimizing the carbon footprint of the distribution process. A pivotal aspect of this thesis is the examination of the use phase of supermarket refrigeration systems. Energy consumption patterns, maintenance requirements, and operational emissions are analyzed in detail. The study identifies key areas for energy efficiency improvements and highlights the role of innovative technologies in reducing the operational environmental impact. Finally, the end-of-life phase is scrutinized, exploring the environmental implications of disposal and recycling processes. This section proposes strategies for responsible end-of-life management, including recycling and waste reduction practices that can mitigate the environmental impact of these systems.