Embodied energy of common materials<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nMany objects are significantly more complex. For example, to calculate the embodied energy of a roaster, espresso machine, or shop fit, requires specific itemisation of materials; measurement of their mass; and calculation of their total embodied energy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The calculations are further complicated when considering processes, such as making a cup of coffee. To return to the cups example, a disposable take-out cup is single use so its total carbon emissions are largely its embodied energy; however a porcelain cup is used hundreds of times so it’s necessary to include aspects such as its washing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The method for comparing the total carbon emitted in these cases is the Life Cycle Assessment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Making informed decisions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) has become the international procedure for calculating the environmental impacts of an item, for example ISO14040:2006. An LCA includes analysis for the acquisition of resources, its production, distribution and use, as well as the energy required to dispose or recycle the item.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are now various consultancies, databases and resources for organisations and researchers wanting to perform a LCA. Despite the commonalty of the standard, because the system boundaries between studies and the assumptions that they contain can vary, it\u2019s useful to either talk about specific examples, or broad generalities. Let\u2019s start with a specific, simple example.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most cafes, coffee shops and restaurants get their fruit and vegetables delivered in boxes, which are typically wooden crates, moulded plastic crates, or printed cardboard. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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