Waste household appliance recycling carbon reduction benefit quantitative evaluation method

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of environmental protection, and provides a waste household appliance recycling carbon reduction benefit quantitative evaluation method. Comprising the following steps: establishing a waste household appliance material composition database, establishing a primary material production carbon emission factor database, establishing a recycling carbon emission factor database, determining a system evaluation boundary, acquiring and inputting data, and calculating carbon emission in the whole recycling process. The method comprises the steps of raw production substitute carbon emission reduction calculation, net carbon reduction benefit calculation, carbon reduction benefit distribution, carbon reduction benefit proof generation, data verification and quality control and evaluation result application. The invention aims to provide a waste household appliance recycling carbon reduction benefit quantitative evaluation method, and the method achieves the scientific quantification of the carbon reduction benefit in the whole process of waste household appliance recycling through the establishment of a systematic evaluation process and an accurate calculation model.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of environmental protection technology, specifically relating to a method for quantitatively evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances. Background Technology

[0002] With the improvement of people's living standards, household appliances have become necessities for modern families. Household appliances mainly include refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, televisions, electric water heaters, microwave ovens, and other products. These discarded appliances contain a large amount of recyclable metal materials (such as copper, aluminum, and iron), plastic materials (such as ABS, PP, and PE), glass, circuit boards, etc., but also contain harmful substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium. Recycling discarded appliances not only saves resources and reduces energy consumption in the mining and production of virgin materials, but also significantly reduces carbon emissions.

[0003] However, existing technologies lack scientific and systematic quantitative evaluation methods for the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances, and the main problems are as follows:

[0004] (1) Inconsistent evaluation indicators: Different recycling companies or research institutions use different evaluation standards and methods. For example, some only consider the energy-saving benefits of metal recycling, while others only consider the emission reduction benefits of avoiding landfill. There is a lack of a unified and comprehensive evaluation system, which leads to large differences in evaluation results and makes it difficult to make horizontal comparisons.

[0005] (2) Unclear system boundary definition: When evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste home appliances, the system boundary definition is not clear. Some only consider the recycling and processing stage, ignoring the carbon emissions of the transportation stage; some only consider the direct emission reduction benefits of recycling and reuse, ignoring the indirect emission reduction benefits of replacing virgin materials in production; some only analyze the carbon reduction benefits of a single material, failing to fully consider the comprehensive benefits of the entire home appliance;

[0006] (3) Insufficient comparison between primary production and recycling: There is a lack of systematic methods to quantify the carbon emissions avoided by replacing primary material production with recycling. Existing assessment methods are mostly rough estimates, and detailed databases of carbon emission factors from primary material production and recycling have not been established, resulting in a lack of accuracy and reliability in the calculation results;

[0007] (4) Poor data reliability: In actual assessment, the data often relies on empirical estimates or averages, lacking precise material composition data for different types and years of home appliances. For example, refrigerators of different models and years have significant differences in metal content, types and contents of plastics, and types of refrigerants, which directly affects the accuracy of carbon reduction benefit assessment.

[0008] (5) Lack of standardized process: The evaluation process has not formed a standardized and normalized process, the various evaluation steps are not closely connected, and the data collection, processing, calculation and verification lack unified standards, resulting in poor reproducibility and verifiability of the evaluation results.

[0009] The above problems prevent the accurate assessment and effective communication of the actual environmental benefits of recycling waste home appliances, reduce the recognition of the environmental value of recycling activities, discourage more entities from participating in waste home appliance recycling activities, and hinder the healthy and sustainable development of the waste home appliance recycling industry. Summary of the Invention

[0010] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides a method for quantitatively evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances, thereby resolving the issues in the prior art. The technical solution adopted by this invention is as follows:

[0011] A method for quantitatively evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances includes the following steps:

[0012] Step 1: Establish a database of waste household appliance material composition;

[0013] Step 2: Establishment of a database of carbon emission factors in virgin material production;

[0014] Step 3: Establish a database of carbon emission factors for recycling and reuse;

[0015] Step 4: Determine the system evaluation boundaries;

[0016] Step 5, Data Collection and Input;

[0017] Step 6: Calculate carbon emissions for the entire recycling process;

[0018] Step 7, Calculation of carbon emission reduction through primary production substitution;

[0019] Step 8, Calculate the net carbon reduction benefit;

[0020] Step 9: Distribution of carbon reduction benefits;

[0021] Step 10: Generation of carbon reduction benefit proof;

[0022] Step 11, Data Validation and Quality Control

[0023] Step 12, Application of evaluation results.

[0024] Furthermore, step 1 includes:

[0025] Step 1.1: Classify the used appliances according to their type, brand, model, and year of manufacture.

[0026] Step 1.2: Select a representative sample of at least 3 units for each type of waste household appliance and completely disassemble them;

[0027] Step 1.3: Weigh the disassembled materials according to the following categories: ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals, plastics, glass, circuit boards, and other materials.

[0028] Step 1.4: Calculate the weight percentage of each type of material in the whole machine and record the data;

[0029] Step 1.5: Summarize and analyze the data to establish a database of waste household appliance material composition, which should include at least the following fields: appliance type, brand, model, year of manufacture, weight percentage of various materials, and content of hazardous substances.

[0030] Furthermore, step 2 includes:

[0031] Step 2.1: Define the boundaries of the virgin material production system, including raw material mining, material processing, and finished product manufacturing;

[0032] Step 2.2: Collect energy and resource consumption data for the production process of various raw materials, including electricity, fuel, and water resources;

[0033] Step 2.3: Calculate the carbon emission factors for the production of various primary materials based on energy and resource consumption data;

[0034] Step 2.4: Establish a database of carbon emission factors in the production of primary materials;

[0035] Step 2.5: Regularly update the carbon emission factors in the primary material production carbon emission factor database to reflect the impact of technological progress and changes in the energy structure.

[0036] Furthermore, step 3 includes:

[0037] Step 3.1: Determine the boundaries of the recycling system, including collection, transportation, pretreatment, dismantling, sorting, and regeneration.

[0038] Step 3.2: Collect energy and resource consumption data for the reuse process of various recycled materials;

[0039] Step 3.3: Calculate the carbon emission factor for the reuse of various recycled materials based on energy and resource consumption data;

[0040] Step 3.4, Establish a database of carbon emission factors for recycling and reuse:

[0041] Step 3.5, simultaneously record the recycling rate of various materials:

[0042] Furthermore, step 4 includes:

[0043] Step 4.1, Spatial Boundaries: From waste appliance recycling points to the final recycled product leaving the factory;

[0044] Step 4.2, Time Boundary: From the moment the old household appliances are discarded to the moment the recycled materials are reused;

[0045] Step 4.3, Process Boundaries: Includes the following elements:

[0046] Step 4.3.1, Recycling Stage: Collection and preliminary screening of used household appliances;

[0047] Step 4.3.2, Transportation: The transportation process from the recycling point to the processing plant;

[0048] Step 4.3.3, Pre-treatment stage: Deliquescing and defluorination before disassembly;

[0049] Step 4.3.4, Disassembly: The process of disassembling the entire machine into its components and materials;

[0050] Step 4.3.5, Sorting: The disassembled materials are classified and purified.

[0051] Step 4.3.6, Recycling Processing: Processing the recycled materials into reusable recycled materials;

[0052] Step 4.4: Present each boundary graphically to form a system evaluation boundary diagram.

[0053] Furthermore, step 5 includes:

[0054] Step 5.1 Basic Information Collection: Record basic information such as the type, brand, model, year of manufacture, and years of use of the discarded household appliances;

[0055] Step 5.2, Weight Measurement: Measure the total weight of the discarded appliance using a calibrated electronic scale;

[0056] Step 5.3, Material Composition Determination: Based on the waste household appliance material composition database, determine the estimated material composition of the household appliance;

[0057] Step 5.4, Record Recycling Information: Record the recycling location, recycling time, and recycling method;

[0058] Step 5.5, Transport Information Recording: Record the transport distance, transport method, and load capacity;

[0059] Step 5.6, Processing Information Recording: Record information about the processing plant, processing method, and destination of recycled materials;

[0060] Step 5.7: Enter the collected data into the evaluation system to form a standardized dataset.

[0061] Furthermore, step 6 includes:

[0062] Step 6.1, Calculation of carbon emissions during transportation: The carbon emissions during the transportation process are calculated using the following formula:

[0063] EC_trans = Σ(Wi × Di × EFi)

[0064] Where EC_trans is the carbon emissions from transportation, Wi is the weight of the i-th batch of waste household appliances, Di is the transportation distance, EFi is the carbon emission factor of the transportation vehicle, and Σ represents the summation over all batches of waste household appliances.

[0065] Step 6.2 Carbon Emission Calculation: The carbon emissions from the treatment process are calculated using the following formula:

[0066] EC_proc = Σ(Wi,j×PEFj)

[0067] Where EC_proc represents the amount of carbon emissions processed, Wi,j represents the weight of the j-th material in the i-th type of home appliance, PEFj represents the carbon emission factor processed by the material, and Σ represents the summation over all types of home appliances and all types of materials;

[0068] Step 6.3 Calculation of total carbon emissions (EC_total) throughout the recycling process:

[0069] EC_total=EC_trans+EC_proc.

[0070] Furthermore, step 7 includes:

[0071] Step 7.1: For each recycled material, calculate the carbon emissions avoided by replacing virgin production based on its recycled weight, recycling rate, and carbon emission factor of virgin material production.

[0072] EC_avoid_j = Wi,j × REFj × OEFj

[0073] Where EC_avoid_j is the amount of carbon emissions avoided by replacing the original production of the j-th material, Wi,j is the recycled weight of the j-th material in the i-th type of home appliance, REFj is the recycling rate of the material, and OEFj is the carbon emission factor of the original production of the material.

[0074] Step 7.2, calculate the total carbon emissions avoided by replacing all materials in primary production, EC_avoid:

[0075] EC_avoid=Σ(Wi,j×REFj×OEFj)

[0076] Step 8 includes:

[0077] Step 8.1, calculate the net carbon reduction benefit EC_net using the following formula:

[0078] EC_net = EC_avoid - EC_total

[0079] Step 8.2, calculate the carbon reduction benefit coefficient:

[0080] EC_coef = EC_net / W_total

[0081] Where EC_coef is the carbon reduction benefit coefficient, and W_total is the total weight of waste household appliances;

[0082] Step 8.3: Based on the carbon reduction benefit coefficients of different types of home appliances, establish a carbon reduction benefit reference value table for rapid assessment and prediction.

[0083] Furthermore, step 9 includes:

[0084] Step 9.1: Determine the contribution ratio of each participant;

[0085] Step 9.2: Calculate the carbon reduction contribution of each participant based on the determined contribution ratio.

[0086] Step 9.3: The allocation ratio shall be adjusted according to the actual situation;

[0087] Step 10 includes:

[0088] Step 10.1: Design a template to demonstrate carbon reduction benefits;

[0089] Step 10.2: Generate corresponding carbon reduction benefit proofs for different participants:

[0090] Step 10.3: Establish a certificate query and verification system to ensure the authenticity and traceability of the certificate.

[0091] Furthermore, step 11 includes:

[0092] Step 11.1, periodic sampling verification;

[0093] Step 11.2, third-party audit and verification;

[0094] Step 11.3, Sensitivity Analysis;

[0095] Step 11.4: Establish a data quality management system to ensure data quality throughout the entire evaluation process.

[0096] The present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0097] (1) Achieving Comprehensive Quantification: The carbon reduction benefit quantification assessment method for waste household appliance recycling provided by this invention achieves precise quantification of the carbon reduction benefits throughout the entire process of waste household appliance recycling by establishing a material composition database, a carbon emission factor database for virgin material production, and a carbon emission factor database for recycling and reuse, combined with a standardized assessment process. In particular, by systematically calculating the amount of carbon emissions avoided compared to virgin material production, it achieves, for the first time, a scientific and comprehensive quantification of the environmental benefits of waste household appliance recycling, providing a reliable basis for recycling decisions.

[0098] (2) Improved evaluation accuracy: By establishing a detailed database and a standardized evaluation process, clearly defining system boundaries, employing a precise calculation model, and combining data verification and quality control measures, this invention significantly improves the accuracy and consistency of evaluation results. In practical application testing, the error between the evaluation results obtained using this method and the actual measured values ​​is controlled within ±5%, which is far superior to the error level of over ±15% in existing technologies.

[0099] (3) Supporting Decision Optimization: This invention provides a scientific basis for optimizing the recycling system by accurately calculating the carbon reduction benefits of different recycling paths and treatment methods. In a pilot project for the recycling of waste household appliances in a certain province, after applying this method to optimize the recycling routes and treatment processes, the overall carbon reduction benefits increased by 18.5%, while the treatment costs were reduced by approximately 12%.

[0100] (4) Promoting Multi-Stakeholder Participation: This invention, through the carbon reduction benefit allocation and proof generation steps, presents the environmental value of recycled waste home appliances in a quantifiable and visual form, and distributes it to each participating party according to their contribution, thus incentivizing consumers, recyclers, and processing companies to actively participate in recycling activities. Tests show that in a pilot project in a certain city, after adopting this method, consumer participation in recycling increased by 32%, the processing enthusiasm of recycling companies increased by 25%, and the total amount of recycled waste home appliances increased by 28.7% year-on-year. Attached Figure Description

[0101] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of the method of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0102] The following will be based on embodiments of the present invention. Figure 1 The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Unless otherwise specified, the technical means used in the embodiments are conventional means well known to those skilled in the art.

[0103] This invention aims to provide a method for quantitatively evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances. This method establishes a systematic evaluation process and a precise calculation model to scientifically quantify the carbon reduction benefits of the entire recycling process of waste household appliances. In particular, it systematically calculates the amount of carbon emissions avoided compared to the production of virgin materials, providing a scientific basis for recycling decisions and providing credible proof of carbon reduction benefits for recycling participants.

[0104] Figure 1 The present invention provides a flowchart of a method for quantitatively evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances, comprising the following steps:

[0105] Step 1, Steps for establishing a database of waste household appliance materials:

[0106] In this step, a standardized material composition database is established for different types of discarded household appliances (including but not limited to refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, televisions, electric water heaters, microwave ovens, etc.) through the following sub-steps:

[0107] Step 1.1 Classify waste home appliances according to their type, brand, model, and year of manufacture;

[0108] Step 1.2 Select a representative sample of at least 3 units for each type of waste household appliance and disassemble them completely;

[0109] Step 1.3 Weigh the disassembled materials according to the following categories: ferrous metals (mainly steel), non-ferrous metals (including copper, aluminum, etc.), plastics (classified by type such as ABS, PP, PE, etc.), glass, circuit boards, and other materials;

[0110] Step 1.4 Calculate the weight percentage of each type of material in the whole machine and record the data;

[0111] Step 1.5: Summarize and analyze the data to establish a database of waste household appliance material composition, including the following fields: appliance type, brand, model, year of manufacture, weight percentage of various materials, content of hazardous substances, etc.

[0112] Step 2, Steps for establishing a database of carbon emission factors in primary material production:

[0113] In this step, a database of carbon emission factors from primary material production is established through the following sub-steps:

[0114] Step 2.1 Determine the boundaries of the virgin material production system, including raw material mining, material processing, and finished product manufacturing.

[0115] Step 2.2 Collect energy and resource consumption data for the production process of various raw materials, including electricity, fuel, water resources, etc.

[0116] Step 2.3 Based on energy and resource consumption data, calculate the carbon emission factor (unit: kgCO2e / kg material) for the production of various primary materials, that is, the carbon dioxide equivalent emissions generated by producing 1 kg of the material;

[0117] Step 2.4 Establish a database of carbon emission factors for primary material production, including the following main materials (data referenced from the IPCC carbon emission factor database and the China Life Cycle Database):

[0118] - Steel: 1.8-2.3 kg CO2e / kg (general steel)

[0119] - Stainless steel: 3.9-4.5 kg CO2e / kg

[0120] - Copper: 3.0-4.0 kg CO2e / kg

[0121] - Primary aluminum: 11.0-14.0 kg CO2e / kg (electrolytic method)

[0122] - Recycled aluminum: 1.1-1.8 kg CO2e / kg (secondary utilization)

[0123] -ABS plastic: 3.0-3.5 kg CO2e / kg

[0124] -PP plastic: 1.7-2.1 kg CO2e / kg

[0125] -PE plastic: 1.8-2.2 kg CO2e / kg

[0126] -PVC plastic: 2.0-2.5 kg CO2e / kg

[0127] - Glass: 0.8-1.2 kg CO2e / kg

[0128] - Circuit board (based on composite materials): 12.0-18.0 kg CO2e / kg

[0129] Step 2.5 Update the carbon emission factors in the database regularly (at least once a year) to reflect the impact of technological progress and changes in the energy structure.

[0130] Step 3, Steps for establishing a database of carbon emission factors for recycling and reuse:

[0131] In this step, a database of carbon emission factors for recycling and reuse is established through the following sub-steps:

[0132] Step 3.1 Determine the boundaries of the recycling system, including the stages of collection, transportation, pretreatment, dismantling, sorting, and regeneration.

[0133] Step 3.2 Collect energy and resource consumption data for the reuse process of various recycled materials;

[0134] Step 3.3 Based on energy and resource consumption data, calculate the carbon emission factor (unit: kgCO2e / kg material) for the reuse of various recycled materials, that is, the carbon dioxide equivalent emissions generated by recycling 1 kg of the material;

[0135] Step 3.4 Establish a database of carbon emission factors for recycling and reuse, including the following main materials (data based on production data and industry research reports from major domestic waste household appliance processing companies):

[0136] - Scrap steel: 0.3-0.5 kg CO2e / kg

[0137] -Scrap stainless steel: 0.6-0.9 kg CO2e / kg

[0138] - Scrap copper: 0.5-0.8 kg CO2e / kg

[0139] -Scrap aluminum: 0.5-0.8 kg CO2e / kg

[0140] - Waste ABS plastic: 0.7-1.0 kg CO2e / kg

[0141] - Waste PP plastic: 0.5-0.8 kg CO2e / kg

[0142] - Waste PE plastic: 0.5-0.8 kg CO2e / kg

[0143] Waste PVC plastic: 0.6-1.0 kg CO2e / kg

[0144] Waste glass: 0.3-0.5 kg CO2e / kg

[0145] Waste circuit boards: 2.0-3.0 kg CO2e / kg (including precious metal recycling)

[0146] Step 3.5 simultaneously records the recycling rate of various materials (based on national industry standards for comprehensive resource utilization and statistical data from actual projects), that is, the proportion that can be effectively recycled during the recycling process:

[0147] - Scrap steel: 95-98%

[0148] -Scrap stainless steel: 95-98%

[0149] - Scrap copper: 92-95%

[0150] - Scrap aluminum: 90-95%

[0151] - Waste ABS plastic: 65-80%

[0152] - Waste PP plastic: 70-85%

[0153] - Waste PE plastic: 70-85%

[0154] - Waste PVC plastic: 60-75%

[0155] - Waste glass: 80-90%

[0156] - Waste circuit boards: 85-95% (including precious metal recycling rate)

[0157] Step 4, System Evaluation Boundary Determination Steps:

[0158] In this step, the boundaries of the evaluation system are clearly defined, including:

[0159] Step 4.1 Spatial Boundary: From the point of collection of used household appliances (such as consumers' homes, recycling stations, etc.) to the final recycled product leaving the factory (such as recycled steel, recycled copper, recycled plastics, etc.);

[0160] Step 4.2 Time Boundary: From the moment the old household appliances are discarded to the moment the recycled materials are reused;

[0161] Step 4.3 Process Boundaries: Includes the following elements:

[0162] Step 4.3.1 Recycling Stage: Collection and preliminary screening of used household appliances;

[0163] Step 4.3.2 Transportation: The transportation process from the recycling point to the processing plant;

[0164] Step 4.3.3 Pretreatment: Operations such as deliquescing and defluorination before disassembly;

[0165] Step 4.3.4 Disassembly: The process of disassembling the entire machine into its components and materials;

[0166] Step 4.3.5 Sorting: The disassembled materials are classified and purified.

[0167] Step 4.3.6 Recycling Processing: Processing the recycled materials into reusable recycled materials;

[0168] Step 4.4 Represent the above boundaries graphically to form a system evaluation boundary diagram, which will be used to guide subsequent evaluation work.

[0169] Step 5, Data Collection and Entry Steps:

[0170] In this step, discarded household appliances entering the recycling system are registered, and data is collected and recorded through the following sub-steps:

[0171] Step 5.1 Basic Information Collection: Record basic information such as the type, brand, model, year of manufacture, and years of use of the discarded household appliances;

[0172] Step 5.2 Weight Measurement: Measure the total weight of the discarded appliance using a calibrated electronic scale;

[0173] Step 5.3 Material Composition Determination: Based on the waste household appliance material composition database, determine the estimated material composition of the household appliance;

[0174] Step 5.4 Record Recycling Information: Record information such as recycling location, recycling time, and recycling method;

[0175] Step 5.5 Transport Information Recording: Record information such as transport distance, mode of transport (e.g., truck, train), and load capacity;

[0176] Step 5.6 Processing Information Recording: Record information such as processing plant details, processing methods, and destination of recycled materials;

[0177] Step 5.7 Input the collected data into the evaluation system to form a standardized dataset, providing a basis for subsequent calculations.

[0178] Step 6: Calculation of carbon emissions throughout the recycling process

[0179] This step calculates the carbon emissions generated throughout the entire process of recycling and reusing waste household appliances, specifically including:

[0180] Step 6.1 Calculation of carbon emissions during transportation: The carbon emissions during the transportation process are calculated using the following formula:

[0181] EC_trans = Σ(Wi × Di × EFi)

[0182] Where EC_trans is the carbon emissions from transportation (unit: kgCO2e), Wi is the weight of the i-th batch of waste household appliances (unit: t), Di is the transportation distance (unit: km), EFi is the carbon emission factor of the transportation vehicle (unit: kgCO2e / t·km), and Σ represents the summation over all batches of waste household appliances;

[0183] Reference values ​​for carbon emission factors of different modes of transportation (from the Ministry of Transport's energy conservation and emission reduction standards):

[0184] - Heavy-duty trucks (fully loaded): 0.08-0.12 kg CO2e / t·km

[0185] - Medium-sized trucks (fully loaded): 0.12-0.18 kg CO2e / t·km

[0186] - Light truck (fully loaded): 0.18-0.25 kg CO2e / t·km

[0187] - Rail transport: 0.02-0.04 kg CO2e / t·km

[0188] -Waterway transportation: 0.01-0.03 kg CO2e / t·km

[0189] Step 6.2 Carbon Emission Calculation: The carbon emissions from the treatment process are calculated using the following formula:

[0190] EC_proc = Σ(Wi,j×PEFj)

[0191] Where EC_proc is the amount of carbon emissions processed (unit: kgCO2e), Wi,j is the weight of the j-th material in the i-th type of household appliance (unit: kg), PEFj is the carbon emission factor processed by the material (unit: kgCO2e / kg), and Σ represents the summation over all types of household appliances and all types of materials;

[0192] Step 6.3 Calculation of total carbon emissions (EC_total) throughout the recycling process:

[0193] EC_total = EC_trans + EC_proc

[0194] The total carbon emissions from the entire recycling process are equal to the sum of carbon emissions from transportation and carbon emissions from processing.

[0195] Step 7, Calculation steps for carbon emission reduction through primary production substitution

[0196] In this step, the carbon emissions avoided by replacing virgin materials with recycled materials are calculated:

[0197] Step 7.1 For each recycled material, calculate the carbon emissions avoided by replacing virgin production based on its recycled weight, recycling rate, and carbon emission factor of virgin material production:

[0198] EC_avoid_j = Wi,j × REFj × OEFj

[0199] Where EC_avoid_j is the amount of carbon emissions avoided by replacing the original production of the j-th material (unit: kgCO2e), Wi,j is the recycled weight of the j-th material in the i-th household appliance (unit: kg), REFj is the recycling rate of the material (dimensionless, value range 0-1), and OEFj is the carbon emission factor of the original production of the material (unit: kgCO2e / kg).

[0200] Step 7.2 Calculate the total carbon emissions avoided by replacing primary production with all materials, EC_avoid:

[0201] EC_avoid=Σ(Wi,j×REFj×OEFj)

[0202] This involves summing up the carbon emissions avoided by all types of household appliances and all types of materials.

[0203] Step 8, Net Carbon Reduction Benefit Calculation Steps

[0204] In this step, the net carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances are calculated:

[0205] Step 8.1 Calculate the net carbon reduction benefit EC_net using the following formula:

[0206] EC_net = EC_avoid - EC_total

[0207] In other words, the net carbon reduction benefit equals the amount of carbon emissions avoided from primary production minus the amount of carbon emissions generated during the entire recycling process;

[0208] Step 8.2 Calculate the carbon reduction benefit coefficient, that is, the net carbon reduction benefit per unit weight of waste household appliances:

[0209] EC_coef = EC_net / W_total

[0210] Where EC_coef is the carbon reduction benefit coefficient (unit: kgCO2e / kg), and W_total is the total weight of waste household appliances (unit: kg);

[0211] Step 8.3 Based on the carbon reduction benefit coefficients of different types of home appliances, establish a carbon reduction benefit reference value table for rapid assessment and prediction.

[0212] Step 9, Distribution of Carbon Reduction Benefits

[0213] In this step, the net carbon reduction benefits are reasonably distributed based on the contributions of each participant in the recycling chain:

[0214] Step 9.1 Determine the contribution ratio of each participant. The standard configuration is as follows (based on the value contribution and cost input analysis of each party in the waste household appliance recycling chain):

[0215] Step 9.1.1 Consumer contribution ratio: 30%, mainly considering the contribution of consumers' active participation in recycling;

[0216] Step 9.1.2 Recycler contribution ratio: 40%, mainly considering the contribution of recyclers in the collection and transportation stages;

[0217] Step 9.1.3 Processing Enterprise Contribution Ratio: 30%, mainly considering the contribution of processing enterprises in the dismantling and recycling stages;

[0218] Step 9.2 Calculate the carbon reduction contribution of each participant based on the determined contribution ratio:

[0219] Step 9.2.1 Consumer contribution to carbon reduction: EC_con = EC_net × 30%

[0220] Step 9.2.2 Recycler's contribution to carbon reduction: EC_rec = EC_net × 40%

[0221] Step 9.2.3 Processing Enterprise Carbon Reduction Contribution: EC_pro = EC_net × 30%

[0222] Step 9.3 The allocation ratio can be adjusted according to the actual situation. The adjustment principles include:

[0223] Step 9.3.1 When the government takes the lead in recycling, the government contribution ratio can be set to 10-20%, and the proportions of other participating parties can be reduced accordingly.

[0224] Step 9.3.2 When the production enterprise takes the lead in recycling, the contribution ratio of the production enterprise can be set to 15-25%;

[0225] Step 9.3.3 For special types of home appliances (such as televisions and computers containing a large amount of precious metals), the contribution ratio of the processing enterprise can be appropriately increased.

[0226] Step 10, Steps for generating proof of carbon reduction benefits

[0227] In this step, based on the calculation results, standardized proof of carbon reduction benefits is generated:

[0228] Step 10.1 Design a template to demonstrate carbon reduction benefits, including the following elements:

[0229] Step 10.1.1 Proof Number: A unique identification code, which can be in the form of a QR code, etc.

[0230] Step 10.1.2 Recycling Information: Basic information such as the type, quantity, and weight of the recycled waste appliances;

[0231] Step 10.1.3 Carbon reduction benefit data: including carbon emissions avoided by replacing primary production, carbon emissions generated during the recycling process, and net carbon reduction benefits;

[0232] Step 10.1.4 Equivalent Representation of Environmental Benefits: Convert the net carbon reduction benefits into a more intuitive representation of environmental benefits, such as:

[0233] - Equivalent number of trees planted: calculated based on each tree having a 10-year growth period absorbing an average of 23 kg of carbon dioxide per year (referencing data from the State Forestry Administration).

[0234] - Reduce vehicle mileage: calculated based on 0.16 kg of CO2 emissions per kilometer (referencing national passenger vehicle fuel consumption standards).

[0235] -Saving standard coal: Calculated based on the fact that burning one kilogram of standard coal produces 2.66 kg of carbon dioxide (referencing data from the National Energy Administration).

[0236] - Reduce landfill disposal: Calculated based on 0.95 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent per ton of municipal solid waste landfilled (referencing data from the Ministry of Ecology and Environment).

[0237] Step 10.1.5 Verification Information: Validity period of the certificate, verification method, issuing authority, etc.;

[0238] Step 10.2 generates corresponding carbon reduction benefit evidence for different participants:

[0239] Step 10.2.1 Consumer Carbon Reduction Certificate: Issued to consumers who participate in recycling, recording their carbon reduction contribution;

[0240] Step 10.2.2 Enterprise Carbon Reduction Certificate: Issued to participating enterprises, which can be used for enterprise ESG reporting and carbon asset management;

[0241] Step 10.3 Establish a proof query and verification system to ensure the authenticity and traceability of proof.

[0242] Step 11, Data Validation and Quality Control Steps:

[0243] In this step, the accuracy and reliability of the evaluation results are ensured through the following sub-steps:

[0244] Step 11.1 Periodic sampling verification:

[0245] Step 11.1.1 Periodically (e.g., quarterly) randomly sample from the recycled waste appliances;

[0246] Step 11.1.2 Perform actual disassembly and measurement on the extracted samples, and record the actual weight of each type of material;

[0247] Step 11.1.3 Compare the measured data with the estimated data in the material composition database and calculate the error;

[0248] Step 11.1.4 When the error exceeds the preset threshold, update the material composition database. The error threshold is set as follows:

[0249] - Ferrous metals (steel): ±8%

[0250] - Non-ferrous metals (copper, aluminum): ±5%

[0251] - Precious metals (gold, silver, palladium, etc.): ±3%

[0252] - Plastic materials: ±10%

[0253] - Glass: ±8%

[0254] - Circuit board: ±5%

[0255] Step 11.2 Third-party audit and verification:

[0256] Step 11.2.1 Invite an independent third-party organization to review the evaluation methods and results;

[0257] Step 11.2.2 The scope of the review includes all aspects such as data collection, calculation process, and result presentation;

[0258] Step 11.2.3 Based on the audit comments, optimize the evaluation methods and processes;

[0259] Step 11.3 Sensitivity Analysis:

[0260] Step 11.3.1 Identify key parameters in the assessment process, such as the primary production carbon emission factor and recycling rate of various materials;

[0261] Step 11.3.2 Analyze the degree of impact of these parameter changes on the final result;

[0262] Step 11.3.3 For highly sensitive parameters, more stringent data collection and verification measures shall be adopted;

[0263] Step 11.4 Establish a data quality management system to ensure data quality throughout the assessment process, including:

[0264] Step 11.4.1 Data Source Management: Record and regularly update the source information of various types of data.

[0265] Step 11.4.2 Data Update Cycle: Establish update cycle standards for different categories of data.

[0266] Step 11.4.3 Data Quality Level: Set the data quality level based on data reliability and accuracy.

[0267] Step 11.4.4 Abnormal Data Handling: Establish an abnormal data identification and handling process.

[0268] Step 12, Application of Evaluation Results:

[0269] In this step, the evaluation results will be applied to the following scenarios:

[0270] Step 12.1 Consumer Incentive Application:

[0271] Step 12.1.1 Design corresponding incentive mechanisms based on consumers' carbon reduction contributions;

[0272] Step 12.1.2 Incentives may include points rewards, cash subsidies, tax reductions, etc.

[0273] Step 12.1.3 Consumers can use their carbon reduction certificates to redeem corresponding benefits on the carbon benefit platform;

[0274] Step 12.2 Enterprise ESG Management Applications:

[0275] Step 12.2.1 Recycling and processing companies may use carbon reduction certification as an important indicator of environmental performance;

[0276] Step 12.2.2 Incorporate carbon reduction data into corporate ESG reports to enhance corporate social responsibility image;

[0277] Step 12.2.3 Optimize the enterprise's recycling and processing processes through carbon reduction benefit assessment to improve environmental benefits;

[0278] Step 12.3 Policy Development Support:

[0279] Step 12.3.1 provides a scientific basis for government departments to formulate relevant policies on the recycling of waste household appliances;

[0280] Step 12.3.2 Based on the carbon reduction benefits of different types of home appliances, set reasonable recycling subsidy standards;

[0281] Step 12.3.3: Evaluate the environmental benefits of different recycling policies and optimize policy design;

[0282] Step 12.4 Application of carbon trading market:

[0283] Step 12.4.1 Explore incorporating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances into the carbon trading market;

[0284] Step 12.4.2 Establish a carbon emission reduction methodology for the recycling of waste household appliances as a basis for the development of voluntary emission reduction projects.

[0285] Several specific implementation examples are given below:

[0286] Example 1: Evaluation of the carbon reduction benefits of discarded refrigerators. Taking a certain brand of 180L double-door refrigerator (weighing 35kg) as an example, the following data was obtained through this method:

[0287] Material composition: Steel 20.65kg (59%), Copper 1.75kg (5%), Aluminum 1.4kg (4%), Plastic 9.1kg (26%), Others 2.1kg (6%)

[0288] Carbon emissions from primary material production: Steel 43.37 kg CO2e (based on steel carbon emission factor 2.1 kg CO2e / kg), Copper 6.13 kg CO2e (based on copper carbon emission factor 3.5 kg CO2e / kg), Aluminum 16.8 kg CO2e (based on aluminum carbon emission factor 12 kg CO2e / kg), Plastics 22.75 kg CO2e (based on average plastic carbon emission factor 2.5 kg CO2e / kg), Others 4.2 kg CO2e, Total 93.25 kg CO2e

[0289] Carbon emissions recovery and treatment: 1.05 kg CO2e from transportation, 9.45 kg CO2e from treatment processes, totaling 10.5 kg CO2e.

[0290] Net carbon reduction benefit: 82.75 kg CO2e

[0291] Carbon reduction efficiency per unit weight: 2.36 kg CO2e / kg

[0292] Example 2: Evaluation of the Carbon Reduction Benefits of Used Washing Machines. Taking a certain brand of 7kg top-loading washing machine (weighing 28kg) as an example, the evaluation using this method yielded the following results:

[0293] Material composition: Steel 16.8kg (60%), Copper 0.84kg (3%), Motor (containing copper and iron) 2.24kg (8%), Plastic 7.28kg (26%), Other 0.84kg (3%)

[0294] Carbon emissions from virgin material production: Steel 35.28 kg CO2e (based on steel carbon emission factor of 2.1 kg CO2e / kg), Copper 2.94 kg CO2e (based on copper carbon emission factor of 3.5 kg CO2e / kg), Motors 6.72 kg CO2e (based on motor composite material carbon emission factor of 3.0 kg CO2e / kg), Plastics 18.2 kg CO2e (based on average plastic carbon emission factor of 2.5 kg CO2e / kg), Others 1.68 kg CO2e, totaling 64.82 kg CO2e.

[0295] Carbon emissions recovery and treatment: 0.84 kg CO2e from transportation, 7.56 kg CO2e from treatment processes, totaling 8.4 kg CO2e.

[0296] Net carbon reduction benefit: 56.42 kg CO2e

[0297] Carbon reduction efficiency per unit weight: 2.01 kg CO2e / kg

[0298] Example 3: Evaluation of the Carbon Reduction Benefits of Used Air Conditioners. Taking a 1.5P wall-mounted air conditioner of a certain brand (total weight of indoor and outdoor units: 40kg) as an example, the evaluation using this method yielded the following results:

[0299] Material composition: 18kg steel (45%), 5.2kg copper (13%), 2.8kg aluminum (7%), 9.2kg plastic (23%), 1.2kg circuit board (3%), 0.8kg refrigerant (2%), and 2.8kg other materials (7%).

[0300] Carbon emissions from virgin material production: Steel 37.8 kg CO2e (based on steel carbon emission factor 2.1 kg CO2e / kg), Copper 18.2 kg CO2e (based on copper carbon emission factor 3.5 kg CO2e / kg), Aluminum 33.6 kg CO2e (based on aluminum carbon emission factor 12 kg CO2e / kg), Plastics 23 kg CO2e (based on average plastic carbon emission factor 2.5 kg CO2e / kg), Circuit Boards 18 kg CO2e (based on circuit board carbon emission factor 15 kg CO2e / kg), Refrigerant 13.6 kg CO2e (Refrigerant R22, GWP value = 1760, calculated at 0.8 kg, including recycling to prevent leakage), Others 5.6 kg CO2e, Total 149.8 kg CO2e

[0301] Carbon emissions recovery and treatment: 1.2 kg CO2e from transportation, 16.8 kg CO2e from processing (including refrigerant recovery and treatment), totaling 18 kg CO2e.

[0302] Net carbon reduction benefit: 131.8 kg CO2e

[0303] Carbon reduction efficiency per unit weight: 3.30 kg CO2e / kg

[0304] In summary, the carbon reduction efficiency coefficients for different types of discarded household appliances are as follows: refrigerators 2.3-2.7 kg CO2e / kg, washing machines 1.8-2.2 kg CO2e / kg, air conditioners 3.0-3.5 kg CO2e / kg, and televisions 1.5-2.0 kg CO2e / kg. These quantified carbon reduction data provide a scientific basis for the environmental value of recycling discarded household appliances.

[0305] The embodiments described above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Any modifications, alterations, substitutions, or variations made by those skilled in the art to the technical solutions of the present invention without departing from the spirit of the present invention shall fall within the protection scope defined by the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for quantitatively evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Step 1: Establish a database of waste household appliance material composition; Step 2: Establishment of a database of carbon emission factors in virgin material production; Step 3: Establish a database of carbon emission factors for recycling and reuse; Step 4: Determine the system evaluation boundaries; Step 5, Data Collection and Input; Step 6: Calculate carbon emissions for the entire recycling process; Step 7, Calculation of carbon emission reduction through primary production substitution; Step 8, Calculate the net carbon reduction benefit; Step 9: Distribution of carbon reduction benefits; Step 10: Generation of carbon reduction benefit proof; Step 11, Data Validation and Quality Control; Step 12, Application of evaluation results.

2. The method for quantitatively evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Step 1 includes: Step 1.1: Classify the used appliances according to their type, brand, model, and year of manufacture. Step 1.2: Select a representative sample of at least 3 units for each type of waste household appliance and completely disassemble them; Step 1.3: Weigh the disassembled materials according to the following categories: ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals, plastics, glass, circuit boards, and other materials. Step 1.4: Calculate the weight percentage of each type of material in the whole machine and record the data; Step 1.5: Summarize and analyze the data to establish a database of waste household appliance material composition, which should include at least the following fields: appliance type, brand, model, year of manufacture, weight percentage of various materials, and content of hazardous substances.

3. The method for quantitatively evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Step 2 includes: Step 2.1: Define the boundaries of the virgin material production system, including raw material mining, material processing, and finished product manufacturing; Step 2.2: Collect energy and resource consumption data for the production process of various raw materials, including electricity, fuel, and water resources; Step 2.3: Calculate the carbon emission factors for the production of various primary materials based on energy and resource consumption data; Step 2.4: Establish a database of carbon emission factors in the production of primary materials; Step 2.5: Regularly update the carbon emission factors in the primary material production carbon emission factor database to reflect the impact of technological progress and changes in the energy structure.

4. The method for quantitatively evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Step 3 includes: Step 3.1: Determine the boundaries of the recycling system, including collection, transportation, pretreatment, dismantling, sorting, and regeneration. Step 3.2: Collect energy and resource consumption data for the reuse process of various recycled materials; Step 3.3: Calculate the carbon emission factor for the reuse of various recycled materials based on energy and resource consumption data; Step 3.4, Establish a database of carbon emission factors for recycling and reuse: Step 3.5: Simultaneously record the recycling rate of various materials.

5. The method for quantitatively evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Step 4 includes: Step 4.1, Spatial Boundaries: From waste appliance recycling points to the final recycled product leaving the factory; Step 4.2, Time Boundary: From the moment the old household appliances are discarded to the moment the recycled materials are reused; Step 4.3, Process Boundaries: Includes the following elements: Step 4.3.1, Recycling Stage: Collection and preliminary screening of used household appliances; Step 4.3.2, Transportation: The transportation process from the recycling point to the processing plant; Step 4.3.3, Pre-treatment stage: Deliquescing and defluorination before disassembly; Step 4.3.4, Disassembly: The process of disassembling the entire machine into its components and materials; Step 4.3.5, Sorting: The disassembled materials are classified and purified. Step 4.3.6, Recycling Processing: Processing the recycled materials into reusable recycled materials; Step 4.4: Present each boundary graphically to form a system evaluation boundary diagram.

6. The method for quantitatively evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Step 5 includes: Step 5.1 Basic Information Collection: Record basic information such as the type, brand, model, year of manufacture, and years of use of the discarded household appliances; Step 5.2, Weight Measurement: Measure the total weight of the discarded appliance using a calibrated electronic scale; Step 5.3, Material Composition Determination: Based on the waste household appliance material composition database, determine the estimated material composition of the household appliance; Step 5.4, Record Recycling Information: Record the recycling location, recycling time, and recycling method; Step 5.5, Transport Information Recording: Record the transport distance, transport method, and load capacity; Step 5.6, Processing Information Recording: Record information about the processing plant, processing method, and destination of recycled materials; Step 5.7: Enter the collected data into the evaluation system to form a standardized dataset.

7. The method for quantitatively evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Step 6 includes: Step 6.1, Calculation of carbon emissions during transportation: The carbon emissions during the transportation process are calculated using the following formula: EC_trans = Σ(Wi × Di × EFi) Where EC_trans is the carbon emissions from transportation, Wi is the weight of the i-th batch of waste household appliances, Di is the transportation distance, EFi is the carbon emission factor of the transportation vehicle, and Σ represents the summation over all batches of waste household appliances. Step 6.2 Carbon Emission Calculation: The carbon emissions from the treatment process are calculated using the following formula: EC_proc = Σ(Wi,j×PEFj) Where EC_proc represents the amount of carbon emissions processed, Wi,j represents the weight of the j-th material in the i-th type of home appliance, PEFj represents the carbon emission factor processed by the material, and Σ represents the summation over all types of home appliances and all types of materials; Step 6.3 Calculation of total carbon emissions (EC_total) throughout the recycling process: EC_total=EC_trans+EC_proc.

8. The method for quantitatively evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances as described in claim 7, characterized in that, Step 7 includes: Step 7.1: For each recycled material, calculate the carbon emissions avoided by replacing virgin production based on its recycled weight, recycling rate, and carbon emission factor of virgin material production. EC_avoid_j = Wi,j × REFj × OEFj Where EC_avoid_j is the amount of carbon emissions avoided by replacing the original production of the j-th material, Wi,j is the recycled weight of the j-th material in the i-th type of home appliance, REFj is the recycling rate of the material, and OEFj is the carbon emission factor of the original production of the material. Step 7.2, calculate the total carbon emissions avoided by replacing all materials in primary production, EC_avoid: EC_avoid=Σ(Wi,j×REFj×OEFj) Step 8 includes: Step 8.1, calculate the net carbon reduction benefit EC_net using the following formula: EC_net = EC_avoid - EC_total Step 8.2, calculate the carbon reduction benefit coefficient: EC_coef = EC_net / W_total Where EC_coef is the carbon reduction benefit coefficient, and W_total is the total weight of waste household appliances; Step 8.3: Based on the carbon reduction benefit coefficients of different types of home appliances, establish a carbon reduction benefit reference value table for rapid assessment and prediction.

9. The method for quantitatively evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Step 9 includes: Step 9.1: Determine the contribution ratio of each participant; Step 9.2: Calculate the carbon reduction contribution of each participant based on the determined contribution ratio. Step 9.3: The allocation ratio shall be adjusted according to the actual situation; Step 10 includes: Step 10.1: Design a template to demonstrate carbon reduction benefits; Step 10.2: Generate corresponding carbon reduction benefit proofs for different participants: Step 10.3: Establish a certificate query and verification system to ensure the authenticity and traceability of the certificate.

10. The method for quantitatively evaluating the carbon reduction benefits of recycling waste household appliances as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Step 11 includes: Step 11.1, periodic sampling verification; Step 11.2, third-party audit and verification; Step 11.3, Sensitivity Analysis; Step 11.4: Establish a data quality management system to ensure data quality throughout the entire evaluation process.

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