The use-phase carbon footprint represents the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions generated during the utilisation phase of a product or asset, excluding manufacturing and end of life. It is especially relevant for goods with prolonged energy consumption, such as household appliances, vehicles or buildings, where the use phase can dominate total life-cycle emissions.
In life-cycle terms it corresponds to the use stage (modules B1 to B7 under the European standard EN 15978 for construction) and complements embodied carbon and the end-of-life carbon footprint to give the total carbon footprint.
Main components
- Energy consumption: electricity, fuels or heat used during operation.
- Maintenance: replacement of components and spare materials.
- Operational inputs: hot water, cleaning chemicals and lubricants.
How it is calculated
- Determine usage patterns: hours per year and service intensity.
- Measure or estimate consumption: kWh, litres of fuel.
- Apply emission factors: the local electricity mix and IPCC values for fuels.
- Multiply by the projected service life in years.
Reduction strategies
- Energy efficiency: high-efficiency motors, insulation and LED lighting.
- On-site renewable energy: solar self-consumption and heat pumps.
- Behavioural programmes: standby modes and efficient driving.
Indicators
- kg CO2e per year of operation.
- kg CO2e per service unit (for example, a wash cycle or a kilometre travelled).
- Percentage reduction against a benchmark such as the EU energy label or Ecodesign requirements.
Relation to other footprints
- It complements embodied carbon to obtain the total carbon footprint.
- It is central to product decarbonisation and energy-efficiency labelling.
Addressing the use-phase carbon footprint is crucial for energy-intensive products, enabling significant reductions across their life cycle and improving the user's total cost of ownership. At Manglai we help companies measure their carbon footprint and prepare their sustainability reporting. Discover how Manglai can help you.
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