Information processing system, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing system, an information processing method, and a program for efficiently inputting an activity amount.SOLUTION: An information processing system in which a user terminal 1 and a management server 2 are communicably connected via a communication network, the management server includes a reception unit that displays a list of input fields of an activity amount for each month corresponding to a type and a fiscal year of an activity amount related to indirect greenhouse gas emission by a business entity and receives the activity amount, and a calculation unit that calculates an emission amount of greenhouse gas by multiplying the activity amount for each month by an emission factor.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Estimation of carbon dioxide emissions has been carried out (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-091900 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] It takes time to input activity data.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above background, and aims to provide a technique that enables an activity amount to be input efficiently. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The main invention of the present invention for solving the above problem is an information processing system, characterized by comprising: a reception unit that receives the activity amounts by displaying a list of types of activity amounts related to indirect greenhouse gas emissions by a business entity and input fields for activity amounts for each month corresponding to the fiscal year; and a calculation unit that calculates the greenhouse gas emissions by multiplying the activity amounts for each month by an emission coefficient.

[0007] Other problems and solutions disclosed in this application will be made clear in the section on preferred embodiments of the invention and the drawings. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, the amount of activity can be input efficiently. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of an information processing system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a hardware configuration of a management server 2. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of the software configuration of a management server 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen 40. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the management server 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] <System Overview> An information processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described below. The information processing system of this embodiment calculates greenhouse gas emissions. The information processing system of this embodiment is compatible with various greenhouse gas accounting and reporting protocols and can be applied to calculations of various emission categories, including, for example, Scope 3 (indirect emissions) of the GHG Protocol. It can also be compatible with other international standards and national and regional reporting systems. When inputting activity data required by these protocols and standards, this system allows batch input of specific types of activity data for a specified period (e.g., month). Users can select the optimal emission calculation method depending on their company's situation and applicable regulations.

[0011] In this embodiment, "activity amount" refers to any quantifiable measurement of business activities related to greenhouse gas emissions. This includes a wide range of indicators, such as physical quantities and economic quantities. Activity amount covers not only activities that directly emit greenhouse gases, but also activities that indirectly contribute to emissions. Examples of activity amount include, but are not limited to, the following: Energy consumption (electricity consumption, fuel consumption, etc.) - Amount of raw materials used and production volume Transportation: distance and number of trips Amount of waste Sales amount of products or services Number of employees and working hours Equipment usage time and utilization rate

[0012] The amount of activity may differ depending on the characteristics of the business, the industry, and the applicable reporting standards, but the information processing system of this embodiment is not limited to the content of the amount of activity.

[0013] The system is designed to be flexible enough to accommodate future changes in standards and the introduction of new protocols. Its structure allows for easy addition and modification of parameters such as activity types, emission factors, and calculation methods, making it possible to adapt the system as environmental regulations and reporting requirements evolve.

[0014] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an information processing system. The information processing system of this embodiment is configured to include a management server 2. The management server 2 is communicably connected to a user terminal 1 via a communication network. The communication network is, for example, the Internet, and is constructed using a public telephone line network, a mobile phone line network, a wireless communication path, Ethernet (registered trademark), etc.

[0015] The user terminal 1 is a computer operated by a user, and may be, for example, a smartphone, a tablet computer, or a personal computer.

[0016] The management server 2 may be a general-purpose computer such as a workstation or a personal computer, or may be logically realized by cloud computing.

[0017] <Administration Server> FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the management server 2. Note that the illustrated configuration is an example, and other configurations may also be used. The management server 2 includes a CPU 201, a memory 202, a storage device 203, a communication interface 204, an input device 205, and an output device 206. The storage device 203 stores various data and programs, and is, for example, a hard disk drive, a solid state drive, or a flash memory. The communication interface 204 is an interface for connecting to a communication network, and is, for example, an adapter for connecting to Ethernet (registered trademark), a modem for connecting to a public telephone network, a wireless communication device for wireless communication, or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector or an RS232C connector for serial communication. The input device 205 is used to input data, and is, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, a button, a microphone, or the like. The output device 206 is used to output data, and is, for example, a display, a printer, a speaker, or the like. Each functional unit of the management server 2 described below is realized by the CPU 201 reading a program stored in the storage device 203 into the memory 202 and executing it, and each storage unit of the management server 2 is realized as part of the storage area provided by the memory 202 and the storage device 203.

[0018] 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the software configuration of the management server 2. The management server 2 includes an emission coefficient storage unit 231, an activity amount storage unit 232, a reception unit 211, and a calculation unit 212.

[0019] <Storage section> The emission coefficient storage unit 231 stores an emission coefficient for each business entity and type of activity amount. The activity amount may be, for example, the production volume of a product, the number of parts purchased, the amount of gasoline used, or the amount of gas procured. The emission coefficient storage unit 231 can store an emission coefficient in association with information identifying the business entity (business entity ID) and information indicating the type of activity amount (activity name).

[0020] An "emission coefficient" is a coefficient that represents the amount of greenhouse gas emissions per unit of activity. In this embodiment, the emission coefficient is used to quantify the amount of greenhouse gas emissions associated with a specific activity or product. For example, the amount of carbon dioxide emitted when burning one liter of gasoline or the amount of greenhouse gas emissions associated with one kilowatt-hour of electricity consumption is an example. Emission coefficients can take different values ​​depending on the type of activity, region, and time of year, and are an important factor for accurately calculating greenhouse gas emissions. Emission coefficients can use standard values ​​published by national or regional government agencies, international organizations, industry associations, etc. Alternatively, business entities can use values ​​calculated independently. The information processing system of this embodiment allows for flexible setting and management of these emission coefficients. The emission coefficient storage unit 231 is configured to appropriately manage these various emission coefficients and update them as needed.

[0021] Emission factors can have the following characteristics: - Values ​​may vary depending on the type of activity, region, time, technical level, etc. Some are for a single gas (e.g. CO2 only) and some are for multiple gases combined. - Set based on primary data (actual measurements) and secondary data (database and literature values) May be updated periodically

[0022] Emission factors can be set for each type of greenhouse gas. For example, different emission factors can be set for major greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. Furthermore, these greenhouse gases can be managed uniformly as carbon dioxide-equivalent emission factors, taking into account their global warming potential (GWP). The information processing system of this embodiment enables the management and application of these various emission factors, and supports accurate and detailed calculation of greenhouse gas emissions.

[0023] The activity amount storage unit 232 stores the activity amount. The activity amount storage unit 232 can store the activity amount (total value for the predetermined period) for each predetermined period (fiscal year and month in this embodiment) and type of activity amount. The activity fee storage unit 232 can store, for example, the total value of the activity amount for a specific type of activity in a specific month of a specific fiscal year. The activity amount storage unit 232 can store details of the activity amount. The details of the activity amount can include information indicating the predetermined period (e.g., fiscal year and month), information specifying the activity (e.g., activity name, account category, etc.), and the activity amount.

[0024] Activity data can quantitatively represent any activity that is directly or indirectly related to greenhouse gas emissions. In addition to the examples mentioned above, such as the production volume of products, the number of parts purchased, the amount of gasoline used, and the amount of gas procured, a wide variety of activities can be managed as activity data. Examples of activity amounts include raw material usage (the amount of each type of raw material used in the manufacture of a product, such as the amount of iron, aluminum, plastic, and wood used), energy usage (the amount of each type of energy, such as electricity, heavy oil, kerosene, and steam used), water usage (the amount of each type of water, such as municipal water and industrial water used), waste generation (the amount of each type of waste, such as waste plastic, sludge, and scrap metal used), transportation activities (the amount of activity related to the transportation of products and raw materials), transport distance and transport weight by means of transportation (truck, train, ship, airplane, etc.), business trip activities (the amount of activity related to employee business trips), travel distance and number of nights by means of transportation (airplane, train, automobile, etc.), commuting activities (the amount of activity related to employee commuting, such as the distance traveled by means of transportation (automobile, train, bus, etc.)), and recycling activities (the amount of activity related to the recycling of products and parts, such as the weight of each type of recycled material). The activities described above are just a few examples, and a wide variety of activities can be managed as activity amounts depending on the business operations of each company. The receiving unit 211 may allow the user to input the amount of activity by selecting from predefined types of activity, or may allow the user to freely input the type of activity. In this way, the information processing system of this embodiment can centrally manage the amount of activity for all types of activity and calculate greenhouse gas emissions.

[0025] The activity amount storage unit 232 can store various information related to the activity amount in addition to the activity amount. For example, the activity amount storage unit 232 can store, in association with the activity amount, the activity implementation period (information indicating the period during which the activity was implemented, which can be expressed by a start date and time and an end date and time), the activity implementation location (information indicating the location where the activity was implemented, such as information on the name and address of a business establishment, factory, warehouse, etc.), the activity implementer (information identifying the person who implemented the activity, such as the name of the person in charge, the name of the department in charge, and the person in charge ID), the activity type (information identifying the type of activity, such as the activity classification, activity name, and activity ID), the activity unit (information indicating the unit of the activity amount, such as number, weight, volume, distance, and time), the activity target (information identifying the activity target, such as the name, type, and model number of a product, part, raw material, energy, etc.), the activity's environmental impact (information indicating the environmental impact of the activity, such as information on greenhouse gas emissions, waste generation, and water pollution load), etc. For example, the activity amount storage unit 232 can store information such as the duration, location, performer, type, unit, and target of the activity, along with the activity amount, in association with key information (such as an activity ID) for identifying the activity. The activity amount storage unit 232 may store the above-mentioned related information as part of the detailed data. That is, the activity amount storage unit 232 can store detailed data along with the activity amount, and can include related information such as the duration and location of the activity as the detailed data.

[0026] <Functional section> The reception unit 211 receives input of an activity amount. The reception unit 211 receives an activity amount related to indirect greenhouse gas emissions by a business entity. The reception unit 211 can receive the activity amount by displaying a list of input fields for the type of activity amount and the activity amount for each month corresponding to the fiscal year. The reception unit 211 can register the received activity amount in the activity amount storage unit 232.

[0027] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen 40. The receiving unit 211 can display the input screen 40 on the user terminal 1 by transmitting screen data for displaying the input screen 40 to the user terminal 1. The input screen 40 can be displayed for each type of activity amount. FIG. 4 shows an example in which an input of an activity amount related to "gasoline" is received. The input screen 40 has input fields 401 for each month in which the activity amount for gasoline from January to December of a certain fiscal year (for example, a fiscal year including the current date and time, fiscal year 2023 in the example of FIG. 4) is input. The total value of the activity amount for each month is input into the input field 401.

[0028] The receiving unit 211 can receive detailed data about the activity amount for each month along with the activity amount. The detailed data is information indicating details of the activity amount, and can include, for example, the date the activity was performed (information indicating the date the activity was performed), the content of the activity (information indicating the specific content of the activity. For example, in the case of a product production activity, information such as the product name, production line, and production lot number), the location of the activity (information indicating the location where the activity was performed. Information such as the business name, factory name, and warehouse name), the person who performed the activity (information identifying the person who performed the activity. Information such as the name of the person in charge and the name of the department in charge), the equipment used in the activity (information identifying the equipment used in the activity. Information such as the equipment name and equipment ID), and the activity amount (the activity amount corresponding to the detailed information above. Information such as the production quantity, purchase quantity, and usage amount). The receiving unit 211 can register the received detailed data in the activity amount storage unit 232.

[0029] The detailed data may include any combination of the above information. Information other than the amount of activity may be input in a format where the user selects from predetermined options, or may be freely input in text format.

[0030] The receiving unit 211 can provide an input field for the detailed data as described above, in addition to the input of the monthly activity amount. In the example of the input screen 40 illustrated in FIG. 4, an input field 402 for inputting the detailed data for that month is provided corresponding to the input field 401 for each month. The input field 402 can provide input fields for each of the above information. The receiving unit 211 can accept the activity amount input in the input field 401 and the detailed data input in the corresponding input field 402 in association with each other, and store them in the activity amount storage unit 232.

[0031] In the above embodiment, the receiving unit 211 displays a list of input fields for the activity amount for each month corresponding to a fiscal year, but the present invention is not limited to this. The receiving unit 211 can display a list of input fields for the activity amount for each predetermined unit period within an arbitrary period.

[0032] For example, the receiving unit 211 may display a list of input fields for the activity amount for each year for a period spanning multiple years. In this case, the user can input the activity amount for several years all at once. Furthermore, the receiving unit 211 may display a list of input fields for the activity amount for each quarter for a specified year or multiple years. In this case, the user can input the activity amount for each quarter.

[0033] The receiving unit 211 may also allow the user to specify any period. For example, the receiving unit 211 may provide input fields for inputting the start date and end date of the period, and may display a list of input fields for the amount of activity for each predetermined unit period (for example, each month or each week) for the period specified by the start date and end date input by the user.

[0034] The target period of the input field for the activity amount displayed as a list by the receiving unit 211 is not limited to a year or a month, but can be flexibly set according to the needs of the user, such as multiple years, a quarter, or any period.

[0035] A graphical input interface can be provided in addition to the tabular input screen shown in Figure 4. For example, an interface may be implemented that displays past activity data in the form of a bar graph or line graph, and allows the user to directly input and edit activity data by dragging points on the graph.

[0036] An interface for managing and inputting activity levels hierarchically may be implemented. For example, the top level could display the total activity level for each fiscal year, the level below that could display and input activity levels by month, and the level below that could input detailed activity levels by day or department. Users can expand and collapse the levels as needed to input and manage data at various levels of granularity.

[0037] Input templates may be prepared according to the type of activity or industry, and users may be able to select an appropriate template to input the amount of activity. For example, templates may be provided that have typical activity categories pre-defined for each industry, such as for manufacturing, service, or retail. This allows users to efficiently input data according to their company's business format.

[0038] A function for importing activity data from external data sources may be implemented. For example, a function for importing activity data in bulk from CSV files, Excel files, or through API integration with other internal systems may be provided. This function significantly reduces the effort required for manual input and enables efficient processing of large amounts of data.

[0039] It is also possible to implement an input interface optimized for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. By providing a UI design suitable for touch operation, a function to scan receipts and bills using a camera, and a voice input function, it becomes possible to quickly input activity data regardless of location.

[0040] The above implementation examples are not mutually exclusive and can be combined appropriately depending on the system requirements and usage situation. Furthermore, by allowing users to select the optimum input method depending on their preferences and work flow, the convenience and flexibility of the system can be increased.

[0041] The reception unit 211 can also have the following functions. "User authentication function": Authenticates users using a user ID and password, or multi-factor authentication, etc. "Input value validity check function": Checks whether the input activity level is within a preset range, preventing the input of abnormal values. "Auto-save function": Automatically saves input data at regular intervals or after specific operations to prevent data loss. "History management function": Records the history of data changes and returns to a previous input state if necessary.

[0042] The calculation unit 212 calculates the greenhouse gas emissions by multiplying the amount of activity for each month by the emission coefficient. The calculation unit 212 can calculate the emissions by multiplying the amount of activity by the emission coefficient corresponding to the type of activity and the business entity. The calculation unit 212 can calculate the emission amount based on the following general formula, for example: Emissions = Activity x Emissions Factor

[0043] Here, emissions are generally measured in tons of CO2 equivalent (t-CO2e). The units of activity amount vary depending on the type of activity; for example, kWh (kilowatt hours) or L (liters) are used for energy consumption, while kg (kilograms) or m3 (cubic meters) are used for the amount of goods procured. The units of emission factors are measured in tons of CO2 equivalent per unit of activity amount (e.g., t-CO2e / kWh, t-CO2e / L). For example, when calculating emissions associated with gasoline use, if the amount of gasoline used (activity amount) in a certain month is 1,000L and the gasoline emission factor is 2.32 kg-CO2 / L, the emissions for that month would be calculated as follows: Emissions = 1,000 L × 2.32 kg-CO2 / L = 2,320 kg-CO2 = 2.32 t-CO2e

[0044] The calculation unit 212 automatically performs the above calculations by reading the activity amount for each month from the activity amount storage unit 232 and obtaining the corresponding emission coefficient from the emission coefficient storage unit 231. If there are multiple activities, the calculation unit 212 calculates the emission amount for each activity and sums them to calculate the total emission amount.

[0045] The calculation unit 212 can also calculate the emissions of different greenhouse gases (e.g., CO2, CH4, N2O) individually, convert them into CO2 equivalent amounts using their respective global warming potentials (GWP), and then add them up. For example, if the GWP of CH4 is 28 and the GWP of N2O is 265, the calculation is as follows: CO2 equivalent emissions = CO2 emissions + (CH4 emissions × 28) + (N2O emissions × 265)

[0046] The calculation unit 212 may also have the following functions. "Parallel processing function": Multi-threading or distributed processing technology is used to speed up the processing of large amounts of data. "Accuracy Guarantee Function": A high-precision arithmetic library is used to minimize errors in floating-point arithmetic. "Calculation log function": Records detailed calculation processes, allowing for verification and auditing of results. "Outlier detection function": Implements a function that issues a warning if the calculation result exceeds the expected range.

[0047] <Operation> FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the management server 2.

[0048] The management server 2 accepts the designation of the fiscal year (S301), accepts the designation of the type of activity amount (S302), displays a list of input fields 401 for inputting the activity amount for each month for the designated fiscal year and type of activity amount (S303), and also displays input fields 402 for inputting details for each month by month so that additional entries can be made (S304), accepts the input of the activity amount (S305), and calculates the emission amount based on the activity amount (S306).

[0049] As described above, according to the information processing system of this embodiment, the activity amount for each month can also be input collectively when inputting the activity amount related to Scope 3, so that the activity amount can be input efficiently.

[0050] Although the present embodiment has been described above, the above embodiment is intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. The present invention may be modified or improved without departing from the spirit thereof, and equivalents thereof are also included in the present invention.

[0051] For example, the processing by each of the functional units of the management server 2 described above may be performed by any of the functional units. Also, a different functional unit that performs part of the processing by each of the functional units described above may be added. Also, the functional units of the management server 2 may be distributed across multiple computers.

[0052] Furthermore, the information stored in each storage unit of the management server 2 may be stored in any of the storage units. That is, the information stored in the above-mentioned multiple storage units may be stored in one storage unit, or part of the information stored in one of the above-mentioned storage units may be stored in another storage unit.

[0053] Furthermore, when displaying the activity amount input fields as a list, the receiving unit 211 may display them in various formats, not limited to the format exemplified in FIG. 4 . For example, the receiving unit 211 may display a list of fiscal years and activity amount types using a pull-down menu, a list box, or the like, and then display the activity amount input fields for each month in a table format according to the fiscal year and activity amount type selected by the user. The receiving unit 211 may also display the fiscal years and activity amount types in a tree structure, and display detailed information about the corresponding fiscal year and activity amount type by expanding a node in the tree structure. Furthermore, the receiving unit 211 may display the activity amount input fields in multiple screens, such that, for example, an activity amount type selection screen is displayed after a fiscal year is selected on a fiscal year selection screen, and a monthly activity amount input screen is displayed after a type of activity amount is selected. Thus, the display format of the activity amount input fields in this embodiment is not limited to the example of FIG. 4 , and various formats may be adopted so that the activity amount for each month can be efficiently input according to the user's selection operation of the fiscal year and activity amount type.

[0054] Furthermore, the emission coefficients for each business entity and type of activity amount stored in the emission coefficient storage unit 231 can be set and registered as follows. First, a user with specific authority, such as an administrator of the management server 2, calls up a setting screen for setting and registering emission coefficients. The setting screen has input fields for inputting information for identifying the business entity (e.g., business entity name and business entity ID), information for identifying the type of activity amount (e.g., activity type name and activity ID), and the emission coefficient value associated therewith. A user, such as an administrator, inputs the emission coefficient value corresponding to the desired business entity and type of activity amount on the setting screen and presses the register button. Upon receiving the press of the register button, the management server 2 stores the input business entity, type of activity amount, and emission coefficient value in the emission coefficient storage unit 231 in association with each other. The emission coefficient value may be set in the management server 2 in advance, or may be changeable by the user. Furthermore, the emission coefficient value may be automatically updated at predetermined intervals. For example, the management server 2 may acquire the latest emission coefficient value from an external database or the like when a predetermined period of time has elapsed, and automatically update the emission coefficient value stored in the emission coefficient storage unit 231.

[0055] <Variation 1> In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the emission coefficient storage unit 231 stores an emission coefficient for each type of business entity and activity amount, and the calculation unit 212 calculates the emission amount by multiplying the emission coefficient corresponding to the activity amount, but this is not limited to this.

[0056] For example, the management server 2 may automatically determine an emission coefficient according to the type of activity amount, and allow the user to select or input it. Specifically, the management server 2 prepares in advance multiple candidate emission coefficients corresponding to each type of activity amount. Then, when the user selects or inputs a type of activity amount, the management server 2 presents the user with candidate emission coefficients corresponding to the selected or input type of activity amount.

[0057] For example, when the type of activity amount "electricity consumption" is selected, the management server 2 can present candidate emission factors such as "emission factor of electric power company A," "emission factor of electric power company B," "emission factor of electric power company C," and "alternative value." The user can select an appropriate emission factor from the presented candidates. Furthermore, if the emission factor desired by the user is not included in the presented candidates, the user can also directly input the emission factor.

[0058] The emission coefficient selected or input in this manner is stored together with the activity amount in the activity amount storage unit 232. Then, the calculation unit 212 can use the emission coefficient stored in the activity amount storage unit 232 to calculate the emission amount based on the corresponding activity amount.

[0059] <Variation 2> In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the receiving unit 211 receives the detailed data together with the activity amount, but the content of the detailed data is not limited to this. For example, the detailed data may also include input and management of monetary information linked to the activity amount.

[0060] Specifically, when accepting an input of an activity amount, the accepting unit 211 can provide an input field for monetary information related to the activity amount. The monetary information is information indicating, for example, the cost required to perform the activity or the profit obtained from the activity. The accepting unit 211 can accept the monetary information entered by the user together with the activity amount and other detailed data, and store it in the activity amount storage unit 232.

[0061] As an example, when an activity amount (production quantity) related to the manufacturing activity of a product is input, the reception unit 211 can provide an input field for inputting monetary information such as the costs required for manufacturing the product (material costs, labor costs, equipment costs, etc.) and the profits obtained from the sale of the product. The user can input related monetary information along with the activity amount (production quantity).

[0062] The activity amount storage unit 232 can store detailed data including monetary information along with the activity amount, which makes it possible to manage the activity amount and monetary information in association with each other.

[0063] Furthermore, the calculation unit 212 can output the emission amount calculated based on the activity amount in association with monetary information linked to the activity amount. For example, the calculation unit 212 can calculate and output indexes such as the emission amount per unit monetary amount and the cost per unit emission amount.

[0064] <Variation 3> In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the calculation unit 212 calculates the greenhouse gas emission amount based on the amount of activity, but there are no particular limitations on how the calculated emission amount is output. For example, the management server 2 may have a function to visualize and display the calculated emission amount using a graph or chart.

[0065] Specifically, the management server 2 can include a graph generation unit. The graph generation unit can generate graphs and charts that show the time-series increase and decrease in the amount of emissions and a breakdown by type, based on the amount of emissions calculated by the calculation unit 212.

[0066] For example, the graph generating unit can arrange the emissions calculated by the calculation unit 212 in chronological order and display them in the form of a line graph, a bar graph, etc. This allows the user to visually grasp the change in the emissions over time.

[0067] Furthermore, the graph generation unit can aggregate the emissions calculated by the calculation unit 212 by type of activity or by location of the activity, and display it in the form of a pie chart, bar graph, etc. This allows the user to visually grasp the breakdown of the emissions.

[0068] Furthermore, the graph generation unit can generate graphs or charts that compare emissions calculated for multiple periods or multiple business entities. For example, the graph generation unit can display emissions for different periods side by side, or emissions for different business entities side by side. This allows the user to visually understand the differences in emissions between periods or between business entities.

[0069] The management server 2 can transmit the graphs and charts generated by the graph generation unit to the user terminal 1 and display them on the screen of the user terminal 1. The management server 2 can also print or output the generated graphs and charts to a file.

[0070] <Variation 4> In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the management server 2 receives the activity amount via the receiving unit 211, but the method of acquiring the activity amount is not limited to this. For example, the management server 2 may be configured to import and utilize activity amount related data managed in another system.

[0071] Specifically, the management server 2 may include an external system linking unit. The external system linking unit has a function of acquiring activity amount related data from a system (external system) separate from the management server 2.

[0072] For example, the external system linkage unit can acquire data related to activity amounts from a company's core system, inventory management system, sales management system, etc. Examples of activity amount related data that can be acquired from a core system, etc. include the production quantity of products, the amount of raw materials used, the amount of energy used, and the amount of waste generated.

[0073] The external system linkage unit can have an interface for communicating data with an external system. For example, the external system linkage unit can acquire data from an external system via an API (Application Programming Interface) or receive data in formats such as a CSV (Comma Separated Values) file or an XML (Extensible Markup Language) file.

[0074] The activity amount related data acquired by the external system linking unit is stored in the activity amount storage unit 232. At this time, the data acquired from the external system may contain a data format different from the data format used by the management server 2 or a unit different from the unit used by the management server 2. Therefore, the external system linking unit may have a function to convert the acquired data into a format or unit that can be used by the management server 2.

[0075] The activity amount related data stored in the activity amount storage unit 232 is used to calculate the discharge amount by the calculation unit 212. The calculation unit 212 can calculate the discharge amount by combining the activity amount received via the reception unit 211 and the activity amount related data acquired via the external system linkage unit.

[0076] <Variation 5> In the above embodiment, the management server 2 calculates greenhouse gas emissions based on the amount of past activity, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the management server 2 may have a function for predicting future activity levels, and may be able to estimate future emissions based on the predicted amount of activity.

[0077] Specifically, the management server 2 may include a prediction unit. The prediction unit has a function of predicting the amount of activity in a predetermined future period based on data on the amount of activity in the past.

[0078] The prediction unit can predict future activity amounts by, for example, performing statistical analysis on time-series data of past activity amounts. Specifically, the prediction unit can predict future activity amounts by analyzing trends and periodicities of past activity amounts and extrapolating them to the future. The prediction unit can use various statistical analysis methods, such as simple regression analysis, multiple regression analysis, and time-series analysis.

[0079] The prediction unit can also perform more accurate predictions by combining and analyzing the amount of past activity with other related data. For example, the prediction unit can predict the amount of future activity by performing multiple regression analysis using the amount of past activity and data related to that activity, such as the sales volume of products and the procurement volume of raw materials.

[0080] Furthermore, the prediction unit can also build a prediction model of activity amounts using techniques such as machine learning and deep learning. The prediction unit can train a prediction model such as a neural network using past activity amount data and other related data as training data. This enables the prediction unit to predict future activity amounts using an advanced prediction model.

[0081] The calculation unit 212 can estimate future greenhouse gas emissions using the future amount of activity predicted by the prediction unit. Specifically, the calculation unit 212 can estimate future emissions by multiplying the predicted amount of activity by an emission coefficient.

[0082] <Variation 6> In the above embodiment, the management server 2 calculates greenhouse gas emissions based on the amount of activity, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the management server 2 may have a function to set an emission reduction target and support progress management toward achieving the target.

[0083] Specifically, the management server 2 may include a goal setting unit and a progress management unit. The goal setting unit has a function of setting reduction targets for greenhouse gas emissions. The progress management unit has a function of managing progress toward achieving the set reduction targets.

[0084] The target setting unit can set a reduction target for emissions for a predetermined period based on, for example, input by a user. The reduction target may be set as an absolute value of emissions or as a basic unit of emissions (e.g., emissions per product). The target setting unit may also be able to set individual reduction targets according to organizational classifications, such as by business location or department.

[0085] The progress management unit can compare the emission amount calculated by the calculation unit 212 with the reduction target set by the target setting unit and manage the achievement status of the target. Specifically, the progress management unit can calculate an index such as a progress rate that indicates how much progress the current emission amount has made toward the reduction target.

[0086] The progress management unit can also manage the implementation status of emission reduction measures toward achieving the reduction target. For example, the progress management unit can manage information such as the content and implementation period of reduction measures entered by the user, and manage the progress status of each measure.

[0087] The progress management unit may have a function for presenting the achievement status of reduction targets and the progress of reduction measures in an easy-to-understand manner to the user. For example, the progress management unit can display the achievement rate of targets and the progress rate in graphs or charts, or display alert messages.

[0088] Furthermore, if it is predicted that achieving the reduction target will be difficult, the progress management department can propose a review of the target or propose new reduction measures. For example, the progress management department can predict future emissions from the current progress status and determine whether or not the target needs to be reviewed based on the prediction results. In addition, by analyzing the relationship between the implementation status of reduction measures and the effect of reducing emissions, it can also propose effective reduction measures.

[0089] <Variation 7: Input in multiple time periods> In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the activity amount was input by month, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, an input screen for inputting the activity amount for multiple time periods may be provided. In this case, the input screen has a drop-down menu that allows the user to select the time period. Options for the time period include, for example, daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annually. When the user selects the time period, the display of the input fields dynamically changes accordingly. For example, if the user selects weekly, input fields for 52 weeks may be displayed, and if the user selects quarterly, input fields for each quarter may be displayed.

[0090] It also has a function for converting data between different time periods. For example, if you enter monthly data and then switch to weekly display, the system will automatically convert the monthly data into weekly data by dividing it by the number of days. Conversely, weekly data can also be aggregated into monthly data.

[0091] <Variation 8: Input via Graphical Interface> An input screen for entering activity data using a graphical interface may be provided. For example, an interface may be provided that allows data to be directly entered and edited using a bar graph or line graph. The input screen may display a graph of past activity data. The user can change the activity data by dragging each data point on the graph up or down. A new data point may be added by clicking anywhere on the graph. The graph display and numerical input may be linked. When data is changed on the graph, the value in the corresponding numerical input field may be automatically updated. Conversely, when a value is changed in the numerical input field, the data point on the graph moves accordingly. Multiple activity data may be displayed on the same graph, allowing users to compare them while entering data. For example, electricity usage and fuel consumption may be displayed on the same graph, allowing users to visually check the correlation between them while entering data.

[0092] <Modification 9: Automatic update function for emission coefficients> This modification includes an emission coefficient update unit that periodically updates the emission coefficient and automatically applies the latest coefficient. The emission coefficient update unit periodically (for example, once a month) connects to an external emission coefficient database and checks the latest emission coefficient data. If new emission coefficients are available, the emission coefficient update unit automatically downloads the data and updates the emission coefficient storage unit 231. The update schedule setting unit also allows the system administrator to flexibly set the update frequency and time. In addition, an update log recording unit may be provided to record when and which emission coefficients were updated, making this information available for audits and verification.

[0093] In addition, a function may be provided that allows the user to select whether or not to recalculate going back to past data when the emission coefficient is updated. The recalculation option setting section allows the user to set the scope of recalculation (e.g., only the past year or the entire period) and whether to perform recalculation automatically or to request confirmation.

[0094] <Modification 10: Function for selecting multiple emission coefficient databases> A function for selecting multiple emission coefficient databases may be provided. In this modification, a function is provided for managing multiple emission coefficient databases and allowing the user to select an appropriate database. The database selection unit allows the user to select the emission coefficient database to use. Selectable databases may include, for example, the following: · International standard databases (e.g., IPCC emission factor database) · Country / region databases (e.g., Japan Greenhouse Gas Inventory) Industry-specific databases (e.g., emission factors for the electrical and electronics industry) User's own custom database (primary data)

[0095] The database management unit can manage these multiple databases in an integrated manner. It can manage information such as the update status, scope of application, and reliability of each database, and provide this information as reference when the user selects an appropriate database.

[0096] This modification may also have a function to automatically apply different databases depending on the type of activity or region. The automatic database selection rule setting unit allows the user to set rules such as "use the emission coefficient of a domestic power company for domestic electricity use, and use the IPCC default value for overseas electricity use."

[0097] Furthermore, the emission coefficient comparison unit can provide a function to compare emission coefficients between multiple databases and visualize the differences, allowing users to evaluate the impact of using different databases and select the most suitable database.

[0098] This modification allows accurate calculation of greenhouse gas emissions using the latest and most appropriate emission factors. It also allows flexible selection and application of emission factors according to various reporting standards and regional characteristics.

[0099] <Modification 11: Graphical calculation result display function> The calculation results of the emission amount may be visually displayed using graphs or diagrams. In this modification, the visualization unit receives the emission amount data calculated by the calculation unit 212 and can generate various graphs and diagrams such as the following. Bar graph: Shows emissions by month and activity type Line graph: Shows changes in emissions over time Pie chart: Shows the contribution of each activity to the overall emissions Heat map: Shows emissions by sector and activity using different shades of color

[0100] The graph type selection section allows the user to select the type of graph they want to display. The data range specification section also allows the user to specify the period of data to be displayed and the type of activity. This variation may also include a graph operation section that allows interactive operation. The user can hover the mouse over a specific data point on the graph to display detailed information, or zoom in and out to focus on a specific period or activity.

[0101] <Modification 12: Automatic comparison and analysis function> It may also be provided with a function to automatically compare emissions with the previous year's level or target value and display the results. In this modified example, a function is provided to automatically analyze the calculation results and extract and display meaningful information. Specifically, a comparison and analysis unit is provided, and the comparison and analysis unit performs the following automatic comparison and analysis. Year-on-year comparison: Compare the emissions for the current fiscal year with the previous fiscal year and calculate the rate of change Target comparison: Calculate the achievement rate against the set emission target value Trend analysis: Predict future emissions from data from past years Outlier detection: Detects outliers that deviate from historical data patterns.

[0102] The target setting section allows users to set short-, medium-, and long-term emission targets. The comparison and analysis section automatically compares these target values ​​with actual emissions and evaluates progress toward achieving the targets. The analysis results display section clearly displays the results of the comparison and analysis. For example, it displays the target achievement rate in a gauge chart, or the increase or decrease compared to the previous year in a plus / minus bar graph. Important analysis results (e.g., "20% increase compared to the same month last year" or "5% remaining until target") are also highlighted to draw the user's attention.

[0103] This modification may also be provided with an alert function, which can automatically notify the system administrator or person in charge if the amount of emissions suddenly increases or deviates significantly from the target value.

[0104] Furthermore, a factor analysis unit may be provided to automatically analyze the factors that cause fluctuations in emissions. For example, an analysis result such as "The main factors behind the 10% increase from the previous month are the increase in production volume (contribution rate 60%) and the increase in air conditioning use due to rising temperatures (contribution rate 30%)" can be provided.

[0105] This modification goes beyond being a simple calculation tool and allows for advanced analysis and visualization.

[0106] <Modification 13: Bulk data import function> A bulk import function (data import unit) from a CSV file or the like may be provided. The data import unit can support data import from the following file formats: CSV (Comma-Separated Values) file Microsoft Excel files (.xls, .xlsx) Tab-delimited text file XML (Extensible Markup Language) files JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) files

[0107] The file selection section allows the user to select a file to import. The data mapping section provides the ability to automatically map columns and fields in the selected file to corresponding fields in the system (e.g., date, activity type, activity amount). The user can adjust this mapping as needed.

[0108] In this modification, a data verification unit can be provided. The unit checks the validity of the data format and values ​​before importing and displays errors and warnings. For example, it can detect mismatched date formats, negative activity amount values, abnormally large values, etc., and prompt the user to correct them.

[0109] The import template generator may also generate a template file in a data format compatible with the system. Users can use this template to prepare data, enabling smooth import.

[0110] <Modification 14: Data export function> A function (data export unit) that can export calculation results and input data in various formats may be provided. In this modification, a function is provided that outputs data within the system as an external file. ·CSV format ·Microsoft Excel format (.xlsx) ·PDF (Portable Document Format) format ·XML format ·JSON format

[0111] The output format selection section allows users to select the desired output format, and the data range specification section allows users to specify the period, activity type, and aggregation level (daily, monthly, yearly, etc.) of data to be exported.

[0112] The user may be able to customize the data items to be output, their order, format, etc. For example, it may be possible to create a report that extracts only specific activities, or a report that compares data from multiple years. A custom report setting section for creating such reports may be provided.

[0113] It is also possible to set up periodic automatic export. For example, the previous month's data can be automatically exported on the first day of each month and sent to a specified email address. A schedule processing unit that performs such exports can be provided.

[0114] <Disclosures> The present disclosure also includes the following configurations. [Item 1] a receiving unit that displays a list of types of activity amounts related to indirect greenhouse gas emissions by a business entity and input fields for the activity amounts for each month corresponding to the fiscal year, and receives the activity amounts; a calculation unit that calculates the amount of greenhouse gas emissions by multiplying the amount of activity for each month by an emission coefficient; An information processing system comprising: [Item 2] Item 1, an information processing system according to item 1, a storage unit that stores the emission coefficient for each of the business entities and the types; the calculation unit multiplies the amount of activity by the emission coefficient corresponding to the type of the amount of activity and the business entity; An information processing system characterized by: [Item 3] Item 1, an information processing system according to item 1, the receiving unit receives detailed data about the activity amount for each month together with the activity amount; An information processing system characterized by: [Item 4] a step of displaying a list of types of activity data related to indirect greenhouse gas emissions by a business entity and input fields for activity data for each month corresponding to the fiscal year, and accepting the activity data; calculating the amount of greenhouse gas emissions by multiplying the amount of activity for each month by an emission coefficient; An information processing method characterized by being executed by a computer. [Item 5] a step of displaying a list of types of activity data related to indirect greenhouse gas emissions by a business entity and input fields for activity data for each month corresponding to the fiscal year, and accepting the activity data; calculating the amount of greenhouse gas emissions by multiplying the amount of activity for each month by an emission coefficient; A program that causes a computer to execute the following. [Explanation of symbols]

[0115] 1. User terminal 2 Management Server

Claims

1. a receiving unit that displays a list of types of activity amounts related to indirect greenhouse gas emissions by a business entity and input fields for the activity amounts for each month corresponding to the fiscal year, and receives the activity amounts; a calculation unit that calculates the amount of greenhouse gas emissions by multiplying the amount of activity for each month by an emission coefficient; An information processing system comprising:

2. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, a storage unit that stores the emission coefficient for each of the business entities and the types; the calculation unit multiplies the amount of activity by the emission coefficient corresponding to the type of the amount of activity and the business entity; An information processing system characterized by:

3. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, the receiving unit receives detailed data about the activity amount for each month together with the activity amount; An information processing system characterized by:

4. a step of displaying a list of types of activity data related to indirect greenhouse gas emissions by a business entity and input fields for activity data for each month corresponding to the fiscal year, and accepting the activity data; calculating the amount of greenhouse gas emissions by multiplying the amount of activity for each month by an emission coefficient; An information processing method characterized by being executed by a computer.

5. a step of displaying a list of types of activity data related to indirect greenhouse gas emissions by a business entity and input fields for activity data for each month corresponding to the fiscal year, and accepting the activity data; calculating the amount of greenhouse gas emissions by multiplying the amount of activity for each month by an emission coefficient; A program that causes a computer to execute the following.

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