ANNOUNCEMENTS
The transportation sector, particularly the two-wheeler industry, is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This master's dissertation investigates the decarbonization efforts within the motorcycle industry, focusing on a leading motorcycle manufacturer in India. The primary aim is to conduct a comprehensive Scope 3 emissions analysis, utilizing a cradle-to-grave approach to identify the primary emission sources throughout the product lifecycle—from raw material extraction to disposal. The study underscores the importance of Scope 3 emissions, which often constitute the largest portion of a company's carbon footprint. It evaluates the effectiveness of various decarbonization strategies and provides recommendations for implementing sustainable practices in motorcycle manufacturing. The analysis considers multiple methods for estimating emissions, including the spend-based, activity-based, physical data, and life cycle assessment (LCA) activity methods, to ensure accurate and detailed emission estimates. Findings reveal that larger and heavier motorcycle components significantly contribute to end-of-life emissions, highlighting the need for design improvements and alternative disposal methods. Additionally, emissions from franchise stores, due to activities such as electricity consumption, fuel usage, and refrigerant refills, are examined, with RevCycle identified as a major contributor. This analysis emphasizes the necessity of addressing emissions across all operational aspects to mitigate the carbon footprint effectively. The proactive approach of Indian automakers in adopting comprehensive GHG inventories, despite the lack of mandatory Scope 3 reporting, demonstrates environmental leadership and prepares the industry for future regulatory changes and shifting consumer preferences. By showcasing the commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability, this dissertation aims to provide a roadmap for the motorcycle industry to achieve substantial emission reductions and contribute to the global effort against climate change.
Keywords: Decarbonization, GHG Inventory, Sustainability, Emissions, Motorcycle Industry.
