Greenhouse gas reduction assistance device, greenhouse gas reduction assistance method, greenhouse gas reduction assistance program, and greenhouse gas reduction assistance system

Abstract

A greenhouse gas reduction assistance device (1) includes an information acquisition unit (11) that acquires inherent information of an assistance target business operator, the inherent information including various kinds of information related to a business of the assistance target business operator, i.e., business-related information; a calculation unit (12) that calculates a predicted value of a greenhouse gas emission amount after a certain period from the present based on the business-related information included in the inherent information acquired by the information acquisition unit, and calculates a difference between a target value and the predicted value of the greenhouse gas emission amount after the certain period; and an output unit (14) that outputs a result of the calculation by the calculation unit to the outside.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to greenhouse gas reduction assistance devices, methods, procedures, and systems that assist business entities in achieving their greenhouse gas emission reduction targets. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, as a countermeasure against global warming, there has been a demand to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In response, various technologies have been proposed for reducing greenhouse gas emissions at business entities such as enterprises (e.g., Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent document 1 describes a technique that calculates CO2 emissions based on energy consumption data output from an energy consumption measuring instrument and displays an image that graphically represents the calculated CO2 emissions and the target CO2 emissions, thereby enabling users to understand the difference between the actual CO2 emissions and the target values.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-34205 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technology described in Patent Document 1 predicts CO2 emissions based on the slope of a curve representing past CO2 emissions up to the present time. However, there is a problem that CO2 emissions at actual operating entities can change, for example, with variations in scale or equipment changes. Therefore, if predictions are based on the slope of a curve representing past CO2 emissions, the accuracy of the predictions may sometimes deteriorate.

[0006] The present invention is proposed in view of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to obtain a greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device with higher accuracy in predicting CO2 emissions.

[0007] To address the aforementioned issues and achieve the objectives, the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device of the present invention is characterized by comprising: an information acquisition unit that acquires inherent information of the assisted business entity, the inherent information including various information related to the business conducted by the assisted business entity, i.e., business-related information; a calculation unit that, based on the business-related information included in the inherent information acquired by the information acquisition unit, calculates a predicted value of greenhouse gas emissions after a specific period from the present, and calculates the difference between the target value and the predicted value of greenhouse gas emissions after the specific period; and an output unit that outputs the calculation results of the calculation unit to the outside.

[0008] The effects of the invention

[0009] According to the present invention, a greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device with higher accuracy in predicting CO2 emissions is achieved. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a structural example of the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary system according to Embodiment 1.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a diagram representing an example of a business-related information table.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a diagram representing an example of a target setting table.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a diagram representing an example of a weight table.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a diagram representing an example of a business growth information table.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a diagram representing an example of an emission factor table.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device according to Embodiment 1.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a graph representing an example of a table showing predictions of changes in activity levels.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the action of the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device involved in Implementation 1 in deciding on the GHG reduction measures to be implemented.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a diagram representing an example of a GHG reduction strategy table.

[0020] Figure 11 This is an example of a screen displaying a prompt for GHG reduction countermeasures.

[0021] Figure 12 This is an example of a GHG reduction countermeasures prompt screen displayed after selecting a GHG reduction countermeasures plan to be implemented.

[0022] Figure 13 This is an example of a GHG reduction countermeasures prompt screen displayed when a new GHG reduction countermeasures option is selected to be implemented.

[0023] Figure 14 This is an example of a notification screen showing the decision to reduce GHG.

[0024] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of an auxiliary device for reducing greenhouse gases.

[0025] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating a structural example of the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary system according to Embodiment 2. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Hereinafter, based on the accompanying drawings, the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device, greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary method, greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary procedure and greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary system according to the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0027] Implementation Method 1

[0028] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a structural example of the greenhouse gas reduction assistance system 100 according to Embodiment 1. The greenhouse gas reduction assistance system 100 includes a greenhouse gas reduction assistance device 1 and a terminal device 2 connected to the greenhouse gas reduction assistance device 1 via a communication network (not shown).

[0029] The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 has an information acquisition unit 11, a calculation unit 12, a storage unit 13 and an output unit 14.

[0030] The information acquisition unit 11 acquires information from the terminal device 2 required for processing that assists in reducing greenhouse gases. To assist in reducing greenhouse gases, the calculation unit 12 performs various calculations using the information acquired by the information acquisition unit 11 from the terminal device 2 and the information stored in the storage unit 13. The storage unit 13 stores the information acquired by the information acquisition unit 11 from the terminal device 2 as a table. The output unit 14 outputs the calculation results of the calculation unit 12 to the terminal device 2.

[0031] In this embodiment, "assisting in the reduction of greenhouse gases" means assisting in the following operation: determining a strategy to reduce emissions in a manner that makes the operating entity's greenhouse gas emissions reach the target value.

[0032] Terminal device 2 is installed in the offices, etc., of business entities that receive assistance in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Figure 1 Although the description is omitted, terminal device 2 includes a display unit, an input unit for receiving operations, and a communication unit for transmitting and receiving data by connecting to a communication network. Terminal device 2 is, for example, a personal computer. Terminal device 2 can also be a tablet terminal, etc.

[0033] The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 obtains various information related to the business operations of the operating entity being assisted (hereinafter referred to as "assisted operating entity" or simply "operating entity") from the terminal device 2, and predicts future greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions based on the obtained information. That is, the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 calculates the predicted GHG emissions after a specific period from the present, based on the various information obtained from the assisted operating entity. Furthermore, if the predicted GHG emissions calculated by the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 fail to meet the predetermined target, specifically, if the predicted GHG emissions are higher than the target value, the auxiliary device 1 assists the operating entity in deciding on countermeasures to ensure that the GHG emissions target is met.

[0034] Figures 2-6 An example of information stored by storage unit 13 in information used in GHG reduction assistance performed by greenhouse gas reduction assistance device 1 is shown. Furthermore, Figures 2-6 The information displayed is acquired by the information acquisition unit 11 from the terminal device 2 at a predetermined timing, or calculated using information acquired from the terminal device 2. The information acquisition unit 11 may also replace the terminal device 2 and acquire information from... Figure 1 Other devices used to obtain [the item] are omitted from the description. Figures 2-6 The information shown may be part or all of the information shown.

[0035] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of Business-Related Information Table 201. Business-Related Information Table 201 records various information related to the business activities conducted by the supporting business entity. For example, it records information such as: "Equipment Management Number," "Equipment Classification" indicating the type of equipment owned by the business entity, "Number of Units" indicating the quantity of each piece of equipment, "Location" indicating the installation location of each piece of equipment, "Building" indicating the building where each piece of equipment is installed, "Annual Energy Consumption" indicating the annual consumption of each type of energy for each piece of equipment, "Whether or Not Each Piece Has an Energy Measuring Instrument," "Whether or Not Each Piece Has Air Conditioning," "Whether or Not Solar Power Generation is Available at the Installation Site," and "Whether or Not Solar Power Generation can be Installed at the Installation Site." The latest business-related information is recorded in Business-Related Information Table 201. The latest business-related information reflects the current status of the business activities conducted by the supporting business entity.

[0036] Figure 3This is a diagram illustrating an example of Target Setting Table 202. Target Setting Table 202 records target information for the future GHG emissions of auxiliary operating entities. For example, Target Setting Table 202 records a "Target Reduction Ratio from Now" which represents the target value relative to the current GHG emission reduction ratio, and a "Target Number of Years" which represents the target value at a point in time from now.

[0037] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of Weighting Table 203. Weighting Table 203 is used when future GHG emission targets cannot be met, i.e., to assist business entities in deciding on measures for further GHG emission reduction. Weighting Table 203 lists the ratios for three reduction categories: energy conservation, renewable energy, and offsetting. The ratios for each reduction category represent the ratio between the additional GHG emission reduction for that category and the total additional GHG emission reduction. Figure 4 In the example shown, the energy conservation category is 60%, the renewable energy category is 40%, and the offset category is 0%. In this case, the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 assists in the operation of the business entity to determine countermeasures for further reducing GHG emissions, so that 60% of the additional reduction in GHG emissions belongs to the energy conservation category and 40% belongs to the renewable energy category, and suggests countermeasures for reducing GHG emissions.

[0038] Here, GHG emission reductions falling under the energy conservation category refer to reductions achieved through improving the energy efficiency of equipment, such as reducing GHG emissions by replacing equipment with less energy-consuming equipment. GHG emission reductions falling under the renewable energy category refer to reductions achieved by changing the energy used by equipment to renewable energy sources, such as reducing GHG emissions by introducing solar power or wind power. GHG emission reductions falling under the offsetting category refer to reductions achieved through the use of offsetting credit systems.

[0039] Furthermore, multiple weight tables 203 can be provided. For example, multiple weight tables 203 with different ratios for the three reduction categories can be stored in the storage unit 13, and priorities can be set for the multiple weight tables 203. In assisting the operation where the operating entity decides on countermeasures for further reducing GHG emissions, the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1, when unable to suggest the countermeasure with the highest priority weight (composition ratio), suggests the countermeasure with the second highest priority weight. If unable to suggest the countermeasure with the second highest priority weight, it suggests the highest-weighted countermeasure among those with the third highest priority or lower.

[0040] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of Business Growth Information Table 204. Business Growth Information Table 204 is used when the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Assistance Unit 1 forecasts the future GHG emissions of the assisted business entity; that is, when calculating the predicted future GHG emissions of the assisted business entity. Business Growth Information Table 204 records the number of years elapsed and business growth information. Business growth information indicates how much the business scale has increased relative to the current point in time (this year) after the number of years elapsed. Furthermore, the information corresponding to elapsed years = 0 is the business growth information for the current point in time, expressed as 100%. Business growth information is, for example, determined by the business entity based on its business plan. Figure 5 In the example shown, after 10 years, the business size becomes 110% of the current business size (= growth rate of 10%), and after 20 years, the business size becomes 130% of the current business size (= growth rate of 30%).

[0041] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of Emission Factor Table 205. Similar to Business Growth Information Table 204, Emission Factor Table 205 is used by the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Assistance Unit 1 to predict future GHG emissions from assisted business entities. In Emission Factor Table 205, information on the change in emission factors over several years is recorded for each type of energy used by the business entity. Figure 6 In the example shown, as information on the change in emission coefficients over various years, the ratio of the emission coefficient to the current point in time (this year) is recorded. For example, when predicting GHG emissions for the number of years with an emission coefficient of 98%, the 98% value of the current emission coefficient becomes the emission coefficient for the number of years to be predicted. Furthermore, the emission coefficient is used when calculating the amount of GHG emissions associated with energy use. By multiplying the amount of energy used by the emission coefficient, the amount of GHG emissions can be obtained. The current emission coefficient is stored in the storage unit 13 as information different from that in the emission coefficient table 205.

[0042] Next, the operation of the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 according to Embodiment 1 will be explained. Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0043] The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 first acquires the inherent information of the operating entity (step S11). Specifically, the information acquisition unit 11 acquires the inherent information of the operating entity being assisted from the terminal device 2. In this step S11, the inherent information acquired by the information acquisition unit 11 constitutes... Figures 2-6 The tables shown. That is, the information acquisition unit 11 acquires various information registered in each of the business-related information table 201, target setting table 202, weight table 203, business growth information table 204, and emission coefficient table 205 stored in the storage unit 13.

[0044] The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 then calculates the current GHG emissions of the assisted business entity (step S12). Specifically, the calculation unit 12 calculates the current GHG emissions based on the business-related information of the assisted business entity registered in the business-related information table 201. The calculation unit 12 calculates the current GHG emissions of the assisted business entity using the business-related information according to a known calculation method specified in the GHG protocol. The calculation unit 12 uses... Figure 2 The recorded annual energy consumption and Figure 2 The data omits the recorded activity amounts of various emission activities stipulated by the GHG Agreement and calculates the current GHG emissions of the auxiliary operating entity as a whole.

[0045] The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 then calculates the target value for GHG emissions in the target year (step S13). Specifically, the calculation unit 12 calculates the target value for GHG emissions in the target year based on the current GHG emissions calculated in step S12 and the target reduction ratio registered in the target setting table 202 from the current date. The calculation unit 12 uses the value of achieving the target reduction ratio from the current date as the target value for GHG emissions in the target year. When using... Figure 3 In the case of the target setting table 202 shown, the target year is 10 years from now. In addition, in this case, the calculation unit 12 sets the target value of GHG emissions for the target year as the value after reducing the current GHG emissions by 30%, that is, 70% of the current GHG emissions.

[0046] The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 then calculates the projected energy and material usage for each year (step S14). Specifically, the calculation unit 12 calculates the projected energy and material usage for each year based on the business growth information registered in the business growth information table 204. The calculation unit 12 uses the calculated projected usage as, for example,... Figure 8 The table shown is stored in storage unit 13.

[0047] Figure 8This is a diagram illustrating an example of Activity Volume Change Forecast Table 206. Activity Volume Change Forecast Table 206 records the number of years elapsed, energy consumption rate, energy usage, material consumption rate, and material usage. The predicted energy and material usage for each year, calculated by the calculation unit 12, is recorded as the respective energy and material usage for each number of years elapsed (number of years = 1, 2, 3, ...) that is greater than or equal to 1. Figure 8 In the activity volume change forecast table 206 shown, energy consumption is expressed as the ratio of future energy consumption (predicted energy consumption) to energy consumption at the current point in time (this year), that is, the ratio of energy consumption at a point in time after the number of years indicated to energy consumption at the current point in time. Energy consumption is equivalent to the result of multiplying the energy consumption rate by the business growth information in the business growth information table 204. Similarly, material consumption is expressed as the ratio of future material consumption (predicted material consumption) to material consumption at the current point in time (this year), that is, the ratio of material consumption at a point in time after the number of years indicated to material consumption at the current point in time. Material consumption is equivalent to the result of multiplying the material consumption rate by the business growth information in the business growth information table 204. The energy consumption rate and material consumption rate are pre-stored in the storage unit 13. The energy consumption rate and material consumption rate can also be obtained from the terminal device 2 in step S11 described above. The energy consumption rate and material consumption rate can also be different values ​​for each year.

[0048] Here, material consumption rate and material usage are information used in the calculation of GHG emissions from raw materials purchased by the business entity for conducting business, GHG emissions during the manufacturing of components and products, GHG emissions associated with the disposal of waste generated in the business, and GHG emissions associated with the use and disposal of products sold by the business entity. In this embodiment, material consumption rate and material usage are used in the calculation of GHG emissions that are not emitted by the business entity using energy (electricity, fuel).

[0049] In addition, the calculation unit 12 can calculate the energy consumption and material consumption by taking all the years in the activity change prediction table 206 as objects, or it can calculate the energy consumption and material consumption only for the number of years in the same period as the target year.

[0050] The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 then calculates the predicted GHG emissions for the target year (step S15). Specifically, the calculation unit 12 calculates the predicted GHG emissions for the target year based on the current GHG emissions, business-related information table 201, activity change prediction table 206, and emission factor table 205. Furthermore, in the following description, the predicted GHG emissions will sometimes be referred to as the predicted GHG emissions.

[0051] In step S15, the calculation unit 12 calculates the predicted values ​​of GHG emissions associated with energy use and GHG emissions associated with material use, and uses the sum of the calculated predicted values ​​as the predicted value of GHG emissions for the target year. For example, the calculation unit 12 calculates the predicted value of energy use for the target year based on the annual energy use in the business-related information table 201 and the energy use in the activity change prediction table 206, and multiplies the calculated predicted value by the corresponding emission coefficient for the target year to derive the predicted value of GHG emissions associated with energy use for the target year. Furthermore, the predicted value of energy use for the target year is calculated for each type of energy, and each calculated predicted value is multiplied by the corresponding emission coefficient for the target year. In addition, the calculation unit 12 derives the predicted value of GHG emissions associated with material use for the target year by multiplying the current GHG emissions associated with material use by the material use in the activity change prediction table 206.

[0052] The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 then calculates the difference between the predicted value and the target value of GHG emissions for the target year (step S16). Specifically, the calculation unit 12 calculates the difference between the predicted value of GHG emissions calculated in step S15 and the target value of GHG emissions calculated in step S13.

[0053] The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 then calculates the target values ​​for additional GHG reductions for energy-saving, renewable energy, and offsetting categories (step S17). Specifically, the calculation unit 12 calculates the target values ​​for additional GHG reductions for each reduction category based on the weight table 203 and the differences calculated in step S16. More specifically, the calculation unit 12 multiplies the ratio of each reduction category registered in the weight table 203 by the difference, and sets the resulting values ​​as the target values ​​for additional GHG reductions for each reduction category. For example, based on... Figure 4 When the target values ​​are calculated using the weighting table 203 shown, the target value for the additional GHG reduction in the energy-saving category is 60% of the difference, the target value for the additional GHG reduction in the renewable energy category is 40% of the difference, and the target value for the additional GHG reduction in the offsetting category is 0.

[0054] The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 then selects the GHG reduction countermeasures to be implemented from the GHG reduction countermeasures falling under the energy-saving category (step S18). In step S18, the pre-prepared GHG reduction countermeasures (hereinafter, sometimes simply referred to as "countermeasures") are presented to the auxiliary target business entity, allowing it to select one or more countermeasures to be implemented, thus determining the countermeasures to be implemented. The following will refer to... Figures 9-13 Meanwhile, specific examples of the actions corresponding to step S18 will be explained.

[0055] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 according to Embodiment 1 in determining the GHG reduction measures to be implemented. The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1, according to... Figure 9 The flowchart shown illustrates the action to determine which GHG reduction strategy to implement from the GHG reduction strategies categorized under energy conservation.

[0056] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates an example of a GHG reduction countermeasures table 207. The GHG reduction countermeasures table 207 is, for example, pre-created by the supporting business entity and stored in the storage unit 13. Alternatively, the greenhouse gas reduction support device 1 may also obtain the GHG reduction countermeasures table 207 and store it in the storage unit 13 during step S11 described above. Furthermore, the greenhouse gas reduction support device 1 may also create the GHG reduction countermeasures table 207 by obtaining the information registered in the GHG reduction countermeasures table 207 from the supporting business entity, rather than obtaining the pre-created table.

[0057] Register the countermeasures for reducing GHG emissions in Table 207. Each countermeasure includes "Countermeasure No.," "Reduction Category," "Content," "Instrument Classification," "Whether it belongs to an instrument category," "Cost," and "Reduction Effect." "Content" indicates the specific content implemented in the countermeasure. "Instrument Classification" indicates the classification of instruments related to the countermeasure content. Instruments related to the countermeasure content are labeled "Compliant." "Whether it belongs to an instrument category" indicates whether the countermeasure targets instruments introduced into equipment; in the case of an instrument-specific countermeasure, it is labeled "Subject." "Cost" indicates the cost required to implement the countermeasure. "Reduction Effect" indicates the reduction in GHG emissions after implementing the countermeasure.

[0058] When deciding on a GHG reduction strategy to be implemented from among the GHG reduction strategies belonging to the energy-saving category, the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 first calculates the cost-effectiveness of each GHG reduction strategy belonging to the energy-saving category (step S31). Specifically, the calculation unit 12 calculates the cost-effectiveness of each GHG reduction strategy based on the costs and reduction effects included in each GHG reduction strategy belonging to the energy-saving category.

[0059] The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 then sorts and displays the GHG reduction measures belonging to the energy-saving category based on cost-effectiveness (step S32). Specifically, the calculation unit 12, for example, creates a list sorting the GHG reduction measures belonging to the energy-saving category in descending order of cost-effectiveness, and sends the created list from the output unit 14 to the terminal device 2 for display. The terminal device 2, for example, will... Figure 11 The GHG reduction countermeasures prompt screen 301 is displayed on the display unit to prompt the user. Furthermore, Figure 11 This diagram illustrates an example of a GHG reduction strategy prompt screen 301. Furthermore, the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 can also sort and prompt GHG reduction strategies belonging to the energy-saving category not based on cost-effectiveness, but based on reduction effectiveness. It can also be configured so that the user can specify whether the sorting is based on cost-effectiveness or reduction effectiveness. This further improves user convenience. Additionally, the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 can also sort and prompt GHG reduction strategies based on cost-effectiveness, distinguishing between those belonging to the instrument category and those not belonging to the instrument category. For example, the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 can sort the GHG reduction countermeasures in Table 207 ("Whether it belongs to the instrument category" is "belongs to") in descending order of cost-effectiveness and display the sorting information on the upper part of the GHG reduction countermeasures prompt screen 301. Conversely, it can sort the GHG reduction countermeasures in Table 207 ("Whether it belongs to the instrument category" is "not belonging to") in descending order of cost-effectiveness and display the sorting information on the lower part of the GHG reduction countermeasures prompt screen 301.

[0060] The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 then accepts the selection of a GHG reduction countermeasure scheme to be implemented (step S33). In this step S33, the terminal device 2 accepts the selection operation performed by the user and sends the selection result to the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1. The user confirms the GHG reduction countermeasure scheme displayed on the GHG reduction countermeasure scheme prompt screen 301 and performs the selection operation using an input device such as a mouse. For example, the user selects the GHG reduction countermeasure scheme to be implemented by clicking the column displayed as "Select" on the GHG reduction countermeasure scheme prompt screen 301 with the mouse. Figure 12 This diagram illustrates an example of a GHG reduction strategy prompt screen 302 displayed after a GHG reduction strategy has been selected. If the user selects a GHG reduction strategy, the terminal device 2 switches to displaying the GHG reduction strategy prompt screen 302. If the "OK" button 3021 included in the GHG reduction strategy prompt screen 302 is pressed, the user's selection operation ends, and the selection result is sent from the terminal device 2 to the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1.

[0061] The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 then calculates the GHG reduction amount when the selected GHG reduction countermeasures are implemented (step S34). Specifically, the calculation unit 12 calculates the total reduction effect of each of the GHG reduction countermeasures selected in step S33.

[0062] The greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 then confirms whether the GHG reduction amount calculated in step S34 is greater than or equal to the target value (step S35). Here, the target value refers to the target value for the additional GHG reduction amount in the energy-saving category calculated in step S17 above. If the GHG reduction amount is greater than or equal to the target value (step S35: Yes), the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 ends the process of deciding on the GHG reduction countermeasure to be implemented from the GHG reduction countermeasures belonging to the energy-saving category. If the GHG reduction amount is not greater than or equal to the target value (step S35: No), the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 confirms whether there is a GHG reduction countermeasure that has not yet been selected, that is, whether there is a GHG reduction countermeasure that was not selected in step S33 above (step S36). If there is no unselected GHG reduction countermeasure (step S36: No), the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 ends the process of deciding on the GHG reduction countermeasure to be implemented from the GHG reduction countermeasures belonging to the energy-saving category. If an unselected GHG reduction strategy exists (step S36: Yes), the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 returns to step S33 and re-accepts the selection of a GHG reduction strategy to be implemented (step S33). In this case, the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1, for example, will... Figure 13 The screen shown on terminal device 2 notifies the user of the insufficient GHG reduction and requests an additional option for GHG reduction measures. Furthermore, Figure 13 This diagram illustrates an example of a GHG reduction strategy prompt screen 303 displayed when the user reselects a GHG reduction strategy to be implemented. If the user reselects a GHG reduction strategy to be implemented, the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 re-executes steps S34 to S36. Thereafter, the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 repeatedly executes steps S33 to S36 until the GHG reduction amount is greater than or equal to the target value, or until there are no more unselected GHG reduction strategies.

[0063] Furthermore, the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 can also notify the user that the target value for additional GHG reduction in the energy-saving category cannot be achieved if the GHG reduction amount is not greater than or equal to the target value and there is no unselected GHG reduction countermeasure (step S35: No, step S36: No). In this case, after receiving the change operation of the weight table 203 from the user via the terminal device 2, the GHG reduction countermeasure to be implemented can be re-determined based on the changed weight table 203. Alternatively, the target value for additional GHG reduction in other reduction categories can be automatically changed based on the difference between the GHG reduction amount when all GHG reduction countermeasures in the energy-saving category have been implemented and the target value for additional GHG reduction in the energy-saving category, and the subsequent processes can be performed using the changed target value.

[0064] return Figure 7 The explanation is as follows: If step S18, i.e., the action of determining the GHG reduction strategy to be implemented from the GHG reduction strategy schemes belonging to the energy-saving category, concludes, then the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 determines the GHG reduction strategy to be implemented from the GHG reduction strategy schemes belonging to the renewable energy category (step S19). The action of step S19 is the same as the action of step S18 above. That is, the "energy-saving category" in the action of step S18 above is replaced with "renewable energy category". Therefore, the detailed operation is omitted. The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 determines the GHG reduction strategy to be implemented based on the GHG reduction strategy scheme belonging to the renewable energy category and the target value of the additional GHG reduction amount of the renewable energy category.

[0065] The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 then determines the GHG reduction countermeasures to be implemented from the GHG reduction countermeasures schemes belonging to the offset category (step S20). The operation of step S20 is the same as that of step S18 described above. That is, the "energy saving category" in the operation of step S18 is replaced with "offset category". Therefore, detailed operation is omitted. The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 determines the GHG reduction countermeasures to be implemented based on the GHG reduction countermeasures schemes belonging to the offset category and the target value of the additional GHG reduction amount for the offset category.

[0066] The greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 then outputs the decision result (step S21). Specifically, the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 outputs the GHG reduction countermeasures to be implemented, determined in steps S18 to S20, to the terminal device 2 and prompts the user. For example, the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 will output... Figure 14 The GHG reduction countermeasures decision notification screen 304 is displayed on terminal device 2 to prompt the user. Furthermore, Figure 14This is an example of a notification screen 304 indicating the decision to implement GHG reduction measures. Figure 14 The GHG reduction strategy decision notification screen 304 shows a list of GHG reduction strategies to be implemented and a total value of GHG emissions reductions (total reductions) if the GHG reduction strategies included in the list are implemented.

[0067] Furthermore, if the difference between the predicted and target values ​​of GHG emissions for the target year is zero or negative (i.e., the predicted GHG emissions are less than or equal to the target values), then no further reduction in GHG emissions is required, and therefore, no action is taken. Figure 7 Steps S17 to S21 are shown. In this case, the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 can also output a prediction result that the GHG emissions for the target year can be achieved to the terminal device 2. It can also output a prediction result that includes a comparison result (e.g., the difference) between the GHG emissions for the target year and the target value to the terminal device 2.

[0068] Next, the hardware structure of the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 will be described. Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1. The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1, for example, consists of... Figure 15 The processor 91, memory 92 and communication circuit 93 shown are combined.

[0069] Processor 91 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit, also known as a processing unit, arithmetic unit, microprocessor, microcomputer, DSP (Digital Signal Processor)), system LSI (Large Scale Integration), etc. Memory 92 is a non-volatile or volatile semiconductor memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), flash memory, or a hard disk. Communication circuit 93 is an electronic circuit that connects to a communication network via wired or wireless means for transmitting and receiving data.

[0070] In the case where the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 is composed of a processor 91, a memory 92, and a communication circuit 93, the aforementioned information acquisition unit 11, arithmetic unit 12, and output unit 14 are implemented by the processor 91 executing programs for operating as these units. The programs for operating as the information acquisition unit 11, arithmetic unit 12, and output unit 14 are pre-stored in the memory 92. The processor 91 reads from the memory 92 and executes these programs, thereby operating as the information acquisition unit 11, arithmetic unit 12, and output unit 14. Furthermore, the aforementioned storage unit 13 is implemented by the memory 92.

[0071] Furthermore, the program stored in the memory 92 for operating as the information acquisition unit 11, the arithmetic unit 12, and the output unit 14 may be provided to the user in the form of being written to a storage medium such as a CD (Compact Disc)-ROM or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)-ROM, or it may be provided to the user via a network.

[0072] As explained above, the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 according to Embodiment 1 calculates the predicted GHG emissions for the target year based on various information related to the business activities of the assisted business entity, such as business-related information and business growth information, and calculates the difference between the predicted GHG emissions for the target year and the target value. Furthermore, if the GHG emissions for the target year cannot be achieved—that is, if the predicted GHG emissions for the target year are greater than the target value—the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 assists the user in deciding on the appropriate countermeasures to implement by suggesting countermeasures for further reducing GHG emissions. When suggesting countermeasures for further reducing GHG emissions to the user, the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 presents the cost-effectiveness of multiple countermeasures together and sorts them in descending order of cost-effectiveness to facilitate comparison of the cost-effectiveness of each countermeasure.

[0073] According to the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1 of Embodiment 1, the predicted value of GHG emissions for the target year is calculated using business growth information representing the future situation of the operating entity, thus improving the accuracy of GHG emission prediction. Furthermore, users do not need to manually calculate the predicted value of GHG emissions for the target year, reducing their workload. Additionally, users can select from multiple countermeasures to reduce GHG emissions while considering cost-effectiveness. Moreover, users can specify additional GHG emission reduction ratios for reduction categories such as energy conservation, renewable energy, and offsetting categories, thus allowing the implementation of countermeasures to be determined based on user requests.

[0074] Implementation Method 2

[0075] In Embodiment 1, a greenhouse gas reduction assistance system 100 is described, in which a greenhouse gas reduction assistance device 1 is connected to a single terminal device 2 to assist the reduction of GHG by an operating entity that has the terminal device 2 installed. However, multiple operating entities may also be assisted.

[0076] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating a structural example of the greenhouse gas reduction assistance system 110 according to Embodiment 2. The greenhouse gas reduction assistance system 110 includes a greenhouse gas reduction assistance device 1a, multiple terminal devices 2-1 to 2-n installed in each of multiple operating entities 20-1 to 20-n, and a database 3-1 to 3-n. The terminal devices 2-1 to 2-n are connected to the greenhouse gas reduction assistance device 1a via a communication network 5.

[0077] The greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1a has the same structure as the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 according to Embodiment 1, and assists each of the operating entities 20-1 to 20-n in deciding on countermeasures to reduce GHG emissions. The actions performed by the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1a for each of the operating entities 20-1 to 20-n—that is, the actions that assist the operating entities in deciding on countermeasures to reduce GHG emissions—are the same as the actions performed by the greenhouse gas reduction assist device 1 for the terminal device 2 according to Embodiment 1. Therefore, details regarding the actions are omitted.

[0078] Databases 3-1 to 3-n each manage the tables corresponding to the business-related information table 201, target setting table 202, weight table 203, business growth information table 204, emission coefficient table 205, activity volume change prediction table 206, and GHG reduction countermeasures table 207 described in Implementation Method 1. Databases 3-1 to 3-n each send the managed tables to the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1a via terminal devices 2-1 to 2-n according to requests from the greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device 1a.

[0079] Thus, in the greenhouse gas reduction assistance system 110 according to Embodiment 2, the greenhouse gas reduction assistance device 1a is used to assist multiple operating entities 20-1 to 20-n, each of which is equipped with multiple terminal devices 2-1 to 2-n connected via the communication network 5, in deciding on countermeasures to reduce GHG emissions.

[0080] According to the greenhouse gas reduction assistance system 110 of Embodiment 2, one greenhouse gas reduction assistance device 1a can centrally implement operation assistance for multiple different business entities 20-1 to 20-n.

[0081] The structure shown in the above embodiments is an example and can be combined with other known technologies. The embodiments can also be combined with each other, and parts of the structure can be omitted or changed without departing from the main idea.

[0082] Explanation of the label

[0083] 1. 1a Greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device; 2. 2-1, 2-n Terminal device; 3-1, 3-n Database; 5 Communication network; 11 Information acquisition unit; 12 Computing unit; 13 Storage unit; 14 Output unit; 20-1, 20-n Operating entity; 100, 110 Greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary system.

Claims

1. A greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device, characterized in that, have: The information acquisition department acquires the inherent information of the auxiliary target business entity, which includes various information related to the business carried out by the auxiliary target business entity, i.e., business-related information; The calculation unit, based on the business-related information contained in the inherent information obtained by the information acquisition unit, calculates a predicted value for greenhouse gas emissions after a specific period from the present, and calculates the difference between the target value and the predicted value for greenhouse gas emissions after the specific period; and The output section outputs the results of the calculations performed by the arithmetic section to the outside.

2. The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inherent information includes the business growth information of the auxiliary object's operating entity. The calculation unit performs calculations on the predicted value based on the business-related information and the business growth information.

3. The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The calculation unit calculates a first predicted value for greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy use in the target year after the specific period, based on the business growth information and the energy usage included in the business-related information. Based on the current greenhouse gas emissions and the business growth information, the calculation unit calculates a second predicted value for greenhouse gas emissions associated with material use in the target year. The sum of the first predicted value and the second predicted value is set as the predicted value for greenhouse gas emissions after the specific period.

4. The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, If the predicted greenhouse gas emissions after the specified period are greater than the target value. The calculation unit sorts multiple pre-prepared countermeasures for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in descending order of cost-effectiveness and presents them to the user, allowing the user to select the countermeasure to be implemented from the multiple countermeasures, so that the predicted value of greenhouse gas emissions after the specific period is less than or equal to the target value.

5. The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The aforementioned countermeasures include: energy-saving countermeasures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions through energy-efficient equipment; renewable energy countermeasures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions by switching equipment to renewable energy sources; and offsetting countermeasures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions by utilizing offsetting credit systems. The calculation unit allows the user to select the countermeasures to be implemented, such that the reduction in greenhouse gases by implementing the energy-saving countermeasures, the reduction in greenhouse gases by implementing the renewable energy countermeasures, and the reduction in greenhouse gases by implementing the offsetting countermeasures are predetermined ratios.

6. The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The computing unit performs the following processes: First, it sorts the countermeasures for the energy-saving category in descending order of cost-effectiveness and prompts the user to select the countermeasure to be implemented; Second, it sorts the countermeasures for the renewable energy category in descending order of cost-effectiveness and prompts the user to select the countermeasure to be implemented. The third step involves sorting the countermeasures for the offset category in descending order of cost-effectiveness and presenting the sorting results to the user, allowing the user to select the countermeasure to be implemented.

7. A method for assisting in the reduction of greenhouse gases, characterized in that, It includes the following steps: The information acquisition step involves acquiring the inherent information of the auxiliary target business entity, which includes various information related to the business conducted by the auxiliary target business entity, i.e., business-related information. The calculation step, based on the business-related information contained in the inherent information obtained in the information acquisition step, calculates the predicted value of greenhouse gas emissions after a specific period from the present, and calculates the difference between the target value and the predicted value of greenhouse gas emissions after the specific period; and The output step outputs the results of the calculations in the calculation steps to the outside.

8. A greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary procedure, characterized in that, Have the computer perform the following steps: The information acquisition step involves acquiring the inherent information of the auxiliary target business entity, which includes various information related to the business conducted by the auxiliary target business entity, i.e., business-related information. The calculation step, based on the business-related information contained in the inherent information obtained in the information acquisition step, calculates the predicted value of greenhouse gas emissions after a specific period from the present, and calculates the difference between the target value and the predicted value of greenhouse gas emissions after the specific period; and The output step outputs the results of the calculations in the calculation steps to the outside.

9. A greenhouse gas reduction assistance system that assists in determining countermeasures to reduce the emissions in a manner that makes the greenhouse gas emissions of each of a plurality of assisting entities reach target values. The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary system is characterized by including: The database and the terminal device used in the countermeasure decision-making process are located at each of the plurality of auxiliary target business entities. The database manages the inherent information of each auxiliary target business entity, including various information related to the business conducted by that entity, i.e., business-related information; and A greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device that assists in the decision-making process for the aforementioned countermeasures. The greenhouse gas reduction auxiliary device has the following features: The information acquisition unit obtains the inherent information from the database; The calculation unit, based on the business-related information contained in the inherent information obtained by the information acquisition unit, calculates a predicted value for greenhouse gas emissions after a specific period from the present, and calculates the difference between the target value and the predicted value for greenhouse gas emissions after the specific period; and The output unit outputs the calculation results of the arithmetic unit to the terminal device.

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