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Announcement
Comparative life cycle assessment of household appliances sold via e-commerce channels: evaluating performance and identifying improvement opportunities

Student name: Ms Mansi Vatwani
Guide: Dr Anand Madhukar
Year of completion: 2024
Host Organisation: PwC India
Supervisor (Host Organisation): Ms Shaivya Singh
Abstract:

This thesis presents a comprehensive analysis of the life cycle emissions of four common household appliances—refrigerator, washing machine, television, and air conditioner—with the objective of evaluating and comparing their environmental performance. The study aims to determine which appliance has the lowest environmental footprint and to identify potential improvement opportunities for each appliance. The research was conducted within a defined study area and utilized a robust methodology encompassing data collection, life cycle assessment (LCA) calculations, and emissions analysis. Production, operational, and end-of-life treatment emissions were calculated for each appliance model, and the results were synthesized to provide a holistic view of their environmental impacts. The results reveal significant differences in the life cycle emissions of the appliances, with air conditioners exhibiting the highest emissions and televisions the lowest. Key factors influencing these outcomes include energy consumption patterns, production processes, and end-of-life management practices.

An online survey was conducted to gather consumer insights on purchasing behaviors, awareness of environmental impacts, and willingness to adopt eco-friendly practices. The study concludes with a discussion of the findings, highlighting the importance of targeted interventions to mitigate the environmental impacts of household appliances. Identified limitations include the focus on specific models, geographical and temporal constraints, and the scope of emissions considered. Addressing these gaps in future research will enhance the accuracy and applicability of life cycle emissions assessments, contributing to more sustainable household appliance usage. By integrating quantitative emissions data with qualitative consumer insights, this thesis provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and improving the environmental performance of household appliances, thereby supporting efforts towards a more sustainable future.

Keywords: Life Cycle Emissions, Energy Efficiency, Environmental Impact, Emissions Analysis, Eco- Friendly Practices.