Purchase item selection support device, purchase item selection support method, purchase item selection support system, and program

Abstract

To provide a purchase article selection support device for smoothly providing purchase article selection support services for promoting emission reduction of carbon dioxide.SOLUTION: A purchase article selection support device is capable of providing information on product options through a communication line. The purchase article selection support device includes: a management section for creating sales information containing at least environmental value related information on a product and the global environment related to the product, and authentication information indicating that the environmental value related information is authenticated by an authenticator; and a communication section for providing the sales information to a first communication terminal of a purchaser through the communication line. The management section creates purchase information containing information on a purchaser, in the case that a product in the sales information has been selected using the first communication terminal. The communication section transmits the purchase information to a second communication terminal of a seller of the product selected by the purchaser, through the communication line.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0003]

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a purchased item selection support device, a purchased item selection support method, a purchased item selection support system, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] A purchased item selection support service using a platform where product information including price is presented for products and the user can select a product to purchase is generally known. This platform can be used, for example, by a web site or application software, and anyone can use it if they have a personal computer or smartphone connected to the Internet.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In recent years, the issue of global warming has been prominently raised, and reduction of carbon dioxide emissions has been recommended. Therefore, the number of purchasers who want to buy products with a smaller amount of carbon dioxide emissions during use or at the time of disposal is increasing.

[0005] However, conventional purchased item selection support services are specialized in product information including price and do not target reduction of carbon dioxide emissions. Therefore, if there is a device that can smoothly implement a purchased item selection support service for reducing carbon dioxide emissions, it can sufficiently meet customer demands and promote reduction of carbon dioxide emissions.

[0006] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a product selection support device, a product selection support method, a product selection support system, and a program that can smoothly implement a product selection support service that promotes the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A product selection support device according to one embodiment is a product selection support device capable of providing information on product options via a communication line. This product selection support device comprises a management unit that generates sales information including at least a product, environmental value-related information relating to the global environment of the product, and authentication information indicating that the environmental value-related information has been authenticated by an authentication body, and a communication unit that provides the sales information to the purchaser's first communication terminal via a communication line. The management unit generates purchase information including information about the purchaser when a product in the sales information is selected using the first communication terminal, and the communication unit transmits the purchase information to the seller's second communication terminal of the product selected by the purchaser via a communication line. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this embodiment, it becomes possible to smoothly implement a product selection support service that promotes the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions. Furthermore, this product selection support service leads to the purchase of products that contribute to a reduction in net carbon dioxide emissions, thereby promoting the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions in the global environment. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram illustrating the product selection support service. [Figure 2] A diagram showing the schematic configuration of the product selection support system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] A block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the product selection support device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] A diagram showing an example of a communication terminal configuration. [Figure 5] A diagram showing an example of an input image generated by the management department. [Figure 6] A flowchart showing an example of the operation flow of the product selection support device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] A diagram showing an example of the configuration of a seller's communication terminal according to Modification 1 of Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] A schematic diagram of an example display image relating to Modification 1 of the First Embodiment. [Figure 9] A schematic diagram illustrating the product selection support system according to the 11th embodiment. [Figure 10] A diagram showing the schematic configuration of the product selection support system according to the 12th embodiment. [Figure 11] A figure showing an example of an input image generated by the management unit according to the 12th embodiment. [Figure 12] A flowchart showing an example of the operation flow of the product selection support device according to the 12th embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0011] (First Embodiment)

[0012] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a product selection support service. In a typical product selection support service, seller 1 registers product candidates 5 using platform 4 and presents first product information 6 related to product candidates 5. In this embodiment, platform 4 refers to the basic environment, screen, and settings for operating a computer, such as the operating system and hardware. For example, platform 4 displays a display image 40 containing information such as product candidates 5, first product information 6, and second product information 9 on the displays of seller 1 and buyer 2.

[0013] The seller 1 may be singular or plural, or the seller 1 and the purchaser 2 may not be individuals but may be companies or organizations. Also, any number of candidate purchased items 5 may be registered. The first product information 6 includes price information, and as other information, there may be information other than price information. The purchaser 2 selects and purchases a purchased item from the candidate purchased items 5 by referring to the first product information 6.

[0014] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the seller 1 presents the purchaser 2 with second product information 9 regarding the carbon dioxide emissions or the substantial carbon dioxide emissions of the candidate purchased items 5. The second product information 9 includes, for example, as the substantial carbon dioxide emissions, information regarding the substantial carbon dioxide emissions discharged until the product is manufactured. The second product information 9 is, for example, the carbon dioxide emissions discharged by an electric power company or the like until the electric power consumed during the manufacture of the product shown in the candidate purchased item 5 is obtained, or the carbon dioxide emissions generated from the fuel consumed during the manufacture of the product. In the present embodiment, the amount related to the improvement of the global environment, including the amount related to carbon dioxide emissions or the substantial carbon dioxide emissions, may be referred to as the amount of environmental value related to the global environment.

[0015] In addition to products, the candidate purchased items 5 may include services or the like. In the case of services or the like, for example, the substantial carbon dioxide emissions discharged by the execution of the service can be used as the second product information 9.

[0016] In order to smoothly provide the above-described purchased item selection support service, in the present embodiment, a purchased item selection support system 19 shown in FIG. 2 is provided. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the purchased item selection support system 19 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the purchased item selection support device 115 according to the first embodiment. Note that the purchased item selection support system 19 is an example of the platform 4. The purchased item selection support system 19 may be the platform 4 itself, or may constitute a part of the platform 4, or may be a system including the platform 4.

[0017] First, the configuration of the purchase product selection support system 19 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the purchase product selection support system 19 includes a plurality of communication terminals 109, a plurality of communication terminals 110, and a purchase product selection support device 115. The communication terminal 109 is the communication terminal of the seller 1 who sells products via the communication line 116, and the communication terminal 110 is the communication terminal of the purchaser 2 who purchases products via the communication line 116.

[0018] The certifier 3 is, for example, a public institution or a company or organization commissioned by a public institution. Also, the certifier 3 may be single or plural. For example, with respect to environmental value-related information regarding the global environment related to a product, the certifier 3 gives and guarantees the certification 8.

[0019] In a more specific example, the environmental value-related information regarding the global environment is, for example, the substantial carbon dioxide emissions related to a product. For example, with respect to the substantial carbon dioxide emissions related to a product, the certifier 3 gives and guarantees the certification 8. Thereby, as will be described later, greenwashing that appears to be environmentally conscious by means of appropriate certification 8 is prevented.

[0020] The purchase product selection support device 115 can exchange signals 129 including information combining, for example, characters, charts, images, videos, etc. on the communication line 116 between the plurality of communication terminals 109 and the plurality of communication terminals 110. For example, this purchase product selection support device 115 is a main server that exchanges signals 129 via the communication line 116. The communication line 116 is, for example, the Internet. The connection to the communication line 116 may be a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0021] That is, this purchase product selection support device 115 exchanges signals 129 with each communication terminal 109 of the seller 1 via the communication line 116. Similarly, the purchase product selection support device 115 exchanges signals 129 with each communication terminal 110 of the purchaser 2 via the communication line 116. The communication terminals 109, 110, etc. are, for example, computer devices, smartphones, mobile phones, etc., and any device that can be connected to the communication line 116 and can exchange signals 129 is acceptable.

[0022] Next, the configuration of the product selection support device 115 according to the first embodiment will be described using Figure 3. As shown in Figure 3, the product selection support device 115 includes a storage unit 130, a communication unit 140, a management unit 150, an input unit 160, and an output unit 170. The management unit 150 also includes a processing unit 152, an estimate information generation unit 154, and a carbon dioxide-related information generation unit 156. The product selection support device 115 can be implemented, for example, using a computer device.

[0023] The memory unit 130 is implemented by, for example, semiconductor memory elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disc, etc. The memory unit 130 stores, for example, first product information 6 and second product information 9 in association with purchase candidate 5. The memory unit 130 also stores various programs.

[0024] The communication unit 140 functions as a communication interface via the communication line 116. That is, as described above, the communication unit 140 exchanges signals 129 with the communication terminals 109 and 110 of seller 1 and buyer 2 (see Figure 2) via the communication line 116.

[0025] The management unit 150 is configured, for example, to include a CPU (Central Processing Unit). By executing a predetermined program stored in the storage unit 140, the management unit 150 can configure the processing unit 152, the estimation information generation unit 154, and the carbon dioxide-related information generation unit 156. The management unit 150 also controls each component of the purchase item selection support device 115. Furthermore, the management unit 150 can be configured with electronic circuits such as an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or integrated circuits such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). Details of the management unit 150 will be described later.

[0026] The input unit 160 functions as an input interface that accepts input operations. This input unit 160 accepts various input operations from the operator, converts the accepted input operations into electrical signals, and outputs them to the management unit 150. For example, the input unit 160 can be implemented using a mouse, keyboard, trackball, switch, button, joystick, etc.

[0027] The output unit 170 displays various types of information. For example, the output unit 170 outputs images generated by the management unit 150, input screens for receiving various operations from the operator, etc. For example, the output unit 170 is composed of a liquid crystal display or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display, etc. As mentioned above, the input unit 160 and the output unit 170 are included in the configuration of the purchase item selection support device 115.

[0028] Figure 4 shows an example configuration of communication terminals 109 and 110. As mentioned above, communication terminals 109 and 110 are computer devices, smartphones, mobile phones, etc. Communication terminals 109 and 110 have the same configuration as the product selection support device 115, except that the configuration of the management unit 150a differs from the management unit 150 of the product selection support device 115. That is, the management unit 150a is configured to include, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and controls each component. On the other hand, in this embodiment, communication terminals 109 and 110 do not have an estimate information generation unit 154, a carbon dioxide-related information generation unit 156, and a processing unit 152. Note that, similar to the product selection support device 115, the input unit 160 and output unit 170 are included in the configuration of communication terminals 109 and 110.

[0029] Here, we will explain the details of the management unit 150 of the product selection support device 115 using Figure 5. Figure 5 shows an example of an input image generated by the management unit 150.

[0030] The processing unit 152 of the management unit 150 executes processing in response to requests from the communication terminals 109 and 110 of seller 1 and buyer 2 (see Figure 2) via the communication line 116.

[0031] The quotation information generation unit 154 generates an image signal for the input image 6a for quotation information. The input image 6a is an image for inputting the first product information 6 (see Figure 1).

[0032] When the processing unit 152 receives a request signal for quotation information generation from the seller 1 via the communication line 116, it sends an image signal to generate the input image 6a to the communication terminal 109. When the image signal of the input image 6a is sent to the communication terminal 109, the input image 6a is displayed on the output unit 170 of the communication terminal 109. The input image 6a displays, for example, a field 90a with the text "Candidate Purchase Name" and a field 92a with the text "Quotation Amount".

[0033] Seller 1 inputs information into the fields for, for example, the candidate product name 90b and the estimated price 92b, which are standard content, using the communication terminal 109, and transmits it to the processing unit 152 of the management unit 150 via the communication line 116. In this way, the information entered in the fields for the candidate product name 90b and the estimated price 92b is associated with the image signal. When seller 1 inputs information using the communication terminal 109 according to the input image 6a, the basic information of the first product information 6 is generated. The communication terminal 109 transmits an estimate information signal, including the information entered in the fields for the candidate product name 90b and the estimated price 92b, to the product selection support device 115.

[0034] The processing unit 152 determines, based on the quotation information signal, whether or not the basic information of the first product information 6 has been input via the input image 6a. If the basic information of the first product information 6 has not been input, the processing unit 152 displays warning information on the communication terminal 109. On the other hand, if the processing unit 152 determines that the basic information of the first product information 6 has been input, it associates the seller 1 and the candidate purchase item 5 and stores the first product information 6 in the storage unit 130 based on the quotation information signal.

[0035] Furthermore, each of the seller 1 and buyer 2 can be pre-associated with a unique identification number (ID number) and stored in the storage unit 130. In this case, if seller 1 is not pre-registered, it is possible to first register them by associating their basic information with the identification number. Similarly, it is possible to first register buyer 2 by associating their basic information with the identification number. For example, the basic information can include a financial institution account number. This makes it possible to use the payment system 200 (see Figure 9), which will be described later, more efficiently.

[0036] The carbon dioxide-related information generation unit 156 generates an image signal for the input image 9a for carbon dioxide-related information. The input image 9a is an image for inputting the second product information 9.

[0037] When the processing unit 152 receives a request signal for generating carbon dioxide-related information from the seller 1 via the communication line 116, it transmits an image signal of the input image 9a to the communication terminal 109. When the image signal of the input image 9a is transmitted to the communication terminal 109, the input image 9a is displayed on the output unit 170 of the communication terminal 109. The input image 9a displays, for example, a field 90a with the text "Candidate purchase name 90b", a field 94a with the text "Name of certifier", and a field 96a with the text "Net carbon dioxide emissions".

[0038] Seller 1 inputs information into the fields for, for example, the candidate purchase name 90b, the certifier name 94b, and the net carbon dioxide emissions 96b, which are standard content fields, using the communication terminal 109. In this way, the image signal of image 9a is associated with the information entered in the fields for the candidate purchase name 90b, the certifier name 94b, and the net carbon dioxide emissions 96b, which are standard content fields. When seller 1 inputs information using the communication terminal 109 according to the input image 9a, the basic information of the second product information 9 is generated. The communication terminal 109 transmits a carbon dioxide emissions information signal, which includes the information entered in the fields for the candidate purchase name 90b, the certifier name 94b, and the net carbon dioxide emissions 96b, which are standard content fields, to the product selection support device 115.

[0039] As shown again in Figure 3, the processing unit 152 determines, based on the carbon dioxide emission information signal, whether or not the basic information of the second product information 9 has been input via the input image 9a. If the basic information of the second product information 9 has not been input, the processing unit 152 displays a warning message on the communication terminal 109. This allows the communication terminal 109 to re-enter the information. On the other hand, if the processing unit 152 determines that the basic information of the second product information 9 has been input, it associates the seller 1 and the candidate purchase item 5 and stores the second product information 9 in the storage unit 130 based on the carbon dioxide emission information signal.

[0040] Based on the carbon dioxide emission information signal, the processing unit 152 stores second product information 9 in the storage unit 130, associating it with the seller 1 and the candidate purchase item 5. In this embodiment, the entry in the column for net carbon dioxide emissions 96b corresponds to information regarding net carbon dioxide emissions, and the entry in the column for the name of the certifier 94b corresponds to certification information indicating that the product has been certified by the certifier 3.

[0041] In this way, the image signal of image 9a is associated with the information entered in the fields for the candidate purchase name 90b, the certifier name 94b, and the net carbon dioxide emissions 96b, which are the reference content. When seller 1 inputs the information using the communication terminal 109 according to the input image 9a, the basic information of the second product information 9 is generated. The communication terminal 109 transmits a carbon dioxide emissions information signal, which includes the information entered in the fields for the candidate purchase name 90b, the certifier name 94b, and the net carbon dioxide emissions 96b, which are the reference content, to the product selection support device 115.

[0042] The product selection support device 115 ensures that the certifier 3 has granted the certification 8. As mentioned above, the certifier 3 is, for example, a public institution or a company / organization commissioned by a public institution. This prevents greenwashing, where appropriate certification 8 gives the false impression of environmental consideration.

[0043] (When the processing unit 152 of the management unit 150 receives the first product information 6 and the second product information 9, it generates sales information using the information stored in the storage unit 130. The sales information includes, for example, the product (candidate purchase) 5 (see Figure 1), the information regarding the net carbon dioxide emissions of the product 9 (see Figure 1), and the information regarding the net carbon dioxide emissions approved by the certifier 3.) testify It includes at least authentication information 94b (see Figure 5) indicating that it is registered.

[0044] When the processing unit 152 receives a request signal for purchase information from the purchaser 2's communication terminal 110 via the communication line 116, it transmits sales information to the communication terminal 110. For example, the processing unit 152 causes the purchaser 2's communication terminal 110 to display the display image 40 (see Figure 1) from the purchase item selection support system 19 via the communication unit 140 and the communication line 116. In this case, the processing unit 152 can display the amount entered in the estimated amount 92b field in the first product information 6 generated by the purchase item selection support system 19, and the information entered in the certifier name 94b field and the information entered in the net carbon dioxide emissions 96b field in the second product information 9.

[0045] Next, the operation of the product selection support device 115 will be explained with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation flow of the product selection support device 115 according to the first embodiment. Here, we will explain the case where the first product information 6 and the second product information 9 are registered simultaneously.

[0046] In the flowchart shown in Figure 6, first, seller 1 operates the communication terminal 109 to request the input of first product information 6 and second product information 9 from the product selection support device 115 (step S100). This seller 1 is, for example, pre-registered in the storage unit 130.

[0047] Next, the processing unit 152 of the product selection support device 115 transmits the image signals of the input images 6a and 9a to the communication terminal 109 via the communication line 116 (step S102). The data input in step S102 includes information such as the name of the candidate product 90b, the estimated price, the name of the certifying body, and the phrase "net carbon dioxide emissions."

[0048] Next, seller 1 operates the communication terminal 109 to fill in the necessary information on input images 6a and 9a and transmits it to the purchase item selection support device 11 via the communication line 116 (step S104). Next, the processing unit 152 determines whether or not the basic information of the first product information 6 and the second product information 9 has been entered via the input images 6a and 9a (step S106). If the processing unit 152 determines that the basic information of the first product information 6 and the second product information 9 has not been entered (N in step S106), it transmits warning information, including information on items that are not listed, to seller 1's communication terminal 109 via the communication line 116 (step S108).

[0049] On the other hand, if the processing unit 152 determines that the basic information of the first product information 6 and the second product information 9 has been entered (Y in step S106), the processing unit 152 generates a display image 40 (see Figure 1) by the purchase selection support system 19 as sales information and publishes or notifies all of the communication terminals 109 of each seller 1 and all of the communication terminals 110 of each buyer 2 via the communication line 116 (step S110). Thus, this sales information includes the first product information 6 and the second product information 9.

[0050] Next, a system user such as purchaser 2 selects a candidate purchase name 90b by referring to the publicly available or notified product information via the input unit 160 of the communication terminal 110, and notifies the processing unit 152 of the purchase selection support device 11 via the communication line 116 (step S112). The processing unit 152 generates purchase information including information about purchaser 2 of the selected candidate purchase name 90b, and displays it on the communication terminal 109 of seller 1 of the selected candidate purchase name 90b as the selection result of purchaser 2.

[0051] Next, if seller 1 accepts buyer 2's purchase request, seller 1 sends an input signal indicating acceptance via communication terminal 109 to buyer 2's communication terminal 110 via processing unit 152 (step S114). This enables seller 1 and buyer 2 to buy and sell goods.

[0052] As explained above, the purchase selection support device 115 enables the purchaser 2's communication terminal 110 to display the product name of the purchase candidate name 90b, along with the net carbon dioxide emissions of the purchase candidate name 90b. Furthermore, it also presents purchaser 2 with certification information regarding net carbon dioxide emissions. This allows purchaser 2 to select a purchase while ensuring the reliability of the purchase candidate by referring to the net carbon dioxide emissions. As a result, products with lower net carbon dioxide emissions will be purchased, leading to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions to the environment. In addition, this will lead to the development and sale of products with even lower net carbon dioxide emissions, further reducing carbon dioxide emissions to the environment.

[0053] (Modification 1 of the first embodiment) In the product selection support system 19 according to the first embodiment, the management unit 150 was configured in the product selection support device 115, whereas the product selection support system 19 according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment differs in that the management unit 150 is configured in the communication terminal 109 of the seller 1. The differences from the product selection support system 19 according to the first embodiment will be explained below.

[0054] Figure 7 shows an example of the configuration of the communication terminal 109 of seller 1 according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 7, the communication terminal 109 of seller 1 has a management unit 150. As a result, the communication terminal 109 has the same functions as the purchase item selection support device 115.

[0055] Figure 8 shows an example of a display image 40a relating to Modification 1 of the First Embodiment. In the display image 40a, multiple purchase candidate products 5, first product information 6 for each of the multiple purchase candidate products 5, net carbon dioxide emissions 96b for each of the multiple purchase candidate products 5, and a certifier 94b as certification information indicating that each of the multiple purchase candidate products 5 is certified are presented. The purchaser 2 selects and purchases an item from the purchase candidate products 5, referring to the net carbon dioxide emissions 96b, which is the first product information 6, and the certifier 94b as certification information.

[0056] In the modified version 1 of the first embodiment of the product selection support system 19, the product selection support device 115 transmits a program application related to the management unit 150 in response to a request from the communication terminal 109 of the seller 1 via the communication line 116. By executing the program application, the communication terminal 109 has the same functionality as the product selection support device 115. Therefore, if the product selection support device 115 does not have a management unit 150, the communication terminal 109 can generate a display image 40a and make it public or notify all communication terminals 109 of each seller 1 and all communication terminals 110 of each buyer 2 via the communication line 116.

[0057] (Second Embodiment) The product selection support system 19 according to the second embodiment differs from the product selection support system 19 according to the first embodiment in that the seller 1 can further provide the buyer 2 with third product information 10, including the actual carbon dioxide emissions from the life cycle assessment related to product manufacturing or from product manufacturing to product disposal. The differences from the product selection support system 19 according to the first embodiment will be explained below.

[0058] The third item, item 10, may include the net carbon dioxide emissions as defined in the ISO (International Organization for Standardization) standard for life cycle assessments related to product manufacturing or from product manufacturing to product disposal. Net carbon dioxide emissions for a life cycle assessment related to product manufacturing include carbon dioxide emissions emitted by power companies, etc., until the electricity consumed during product manufacturing is obtained, carbon dioxide emissions generated from the fuel consumed during product manufacturing, etc., plus carbon dioxide emissions related to product materials and carbon dioxide emissions related to the transportation of products and product materials. Net carbon dioxide emissions for a life cycle assessment from product manufacturing to product disposal include the net carbon dioxide emissions for a life cycle assessment related to product manufacturing, plus carbon dioxide emissions related to the electricity and fuel consumed during use, and carbon dioxide emissions generated at disposal. Note that "related to product materials" means emissions generated when raw materials such as metals and resins reach their state, and "during use" means during operation during the expected lifespan of products that operate. In other words, the net carbon dioxide emissions for a life cycle assessment include the net carbon dioxide emissions emitted throughout the product's life cycle, from the generation of product materials from raw materials to product disposal.

[0059] The processing unit 152 of the purchase selection support device 115 according to this embodiment can, for example, display a third product information 10 (not shown) on the display image 40 (see Figure 1). That is, the processing unit 152 generates sales information that further includes the third product information 10.

[0060] This allows buyer 2 to select and purchase items from the candidate items 5 (see Figure 1) by further referring to the third item information 10. They may also refer to other item information besides the third item information 10.

[0061] The actual carbon dioxide emissions, as defined in the ISO standard for life cycle assessment of products, are guaranteed by the certifier 3 by granting certification 8. The certifier 3 is, for example, a public institution or a company / organization commissioned by a public institution. Appropriate certification 8 prevents greenwashing, which is a way of giving the false impression of environmental consideration. Thus, the product selection support system 100 according to the second embodiment differs from the product selection support system 100 according to the first embodiment in that it can further refer to the third product information 10. Note that it is optional whether or not to refer to the second product information 9 (see Figure 1).

[0062] As described above, the purchase selection support device 115 according to this embodiment displays, on the purchaser 2's communication terminal 110, the net carbon dioxide emissions as defined in the ISO standard for life cycle assessment related to the product, along with the product name of the product candidate. Furthermore, information on certification 8 regarding the net carbon dioxide emissions as defined in the ISO standard for life cycle assessment related to the product is also presented to the purchaser 2. This makes it possible for the purchaser 2 to select a product while ensuring the reliability of the product candidate by referring to the net carbon dioxide emissions as defined in the ISO standard for life cycle assessment. As a result, products with lower net carbon dioxide emissions throughout their life cycle will be purchased, and carbon dioxide emissions to the environment will be reduced. In addition, this will lead to the development and sale of products with lower net carbon dioxide emissions, further reducing carbon dioxide emissions to the environment.

[0063] (Third embodiment) The product selection support system 19 according to the third embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in that the seller 1 can further provide the buyer 2 with the fourth product information 11, including the actual carbon dioxide emissions after carbon trading related to the product manufacturing. The differences from the product selection support system 19 according to the first and second embodiments will be explained below.

[0064] The fourth product information item (item 11) can include net carbon dioxide emissions after carbon trading has been implemented. Carbon trading refers to transactions using environmental values ​​such as non-fossil fuel certificates from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry or J-Credits from the Ministry of the Environment, and can be used for carbon offsetting. In carbon trading, electricity can be purchased as if it were generated using renewable energy, or since plants can fix carbon dioxide, it can be treated as if carbon dioxide was absorbed through forest conservation. Regardless of whether carbon trading is used or not, if there are no net carbon dioxide emissions, it will be presented as net emissions of zero.

[0065] The processing unit 152 of the purchase selection support device 115 according to this embodiment can, for example, display a fourth product information 11 (not shown) on the display image 40 (see Figure 1). That is, the processing unit 152 can generate sales information that further includes the fourth product information 11.

[0066] This allows buyer 2 to select and purchase an item from the 5 potential purchase items, further referring to the fourth product information 11. They may also refer to product information other than the fourth product information 11.

[0067] The actual carbon dioxide emissions after carbon trading are guaranteed by the certifier 3 by granting certification 8. As described above, appropriate certification 8 prevents greenwashing, which is a way of giving the appearance of being environmentally conscious. Thus, the purchase selection support system 100 according to the third embodiment differs from the purchase selection support system 100 according to the first and second embodiments in that it allows further reference to the fourth product information 11.

[0068] As explained above, the purchase selection support device 115 displays the product names of potential purchase items along with the net carbon dioxide emissions after carbon trading related to the products on the purchaser's communication terminal 110. Furthermore, information on certification 8 regarding the net carbon dioxide emissions after carbon trading related to the products is also presented to purchaser 2. This allows purchaser 2 to select purchase items while ensuring the reliability of the potential purchase items by further referring to the net carbon dioxide emissions after carbon trading. As a result, products with lower net carbon dioxide emissions after carbon trading will be purchased, leading to lower carbon dioxide emissions to the environment. In addition, this will lead to the development and sale of products with lower net carbon dioxide emissions, further reducing carbon dioxide emissions to the environment.

[0069] (Fourth Embodiment) The product selection support system 19 according to the fourth embodiment differs from the first to third embodiments in that the seller 1 can further provide the buyer 2 with information regarding the amount of carbon dioxide generated during the manufacturing of the product, or information regarding the low amount of non-renewable energy consumption, in the fifth product information 12. The differences from the product selection support system 19 according to the first to third embodiments will be explained below.

[0070] The fifth item of product information (item 12) may include information regarding the low amount of carbon dioxide emissions during the product's manufacturing process, or the low amount of electricity consumed from sources other than renewable energy. This information is one aspect of environmentally friendly products. For example, reducing the consumption of fossil fuels or using electricity generated by installing solar panels can result in a product that "has excellent low electricity consumption from sources other than renewable energy."

[0071] The processing unit 152 of the purchase selection support device 115 according to this embodiment can, for example, display a fifth product information 12 (not shown) on the display image 40 (see Figure 1). That is, the processing unit 152 can generate sales information that further includes the fifth product information 12.

[0072] This allows buyer 2 to select and purchase items from the candidate items 5 by further referring to the fifth item information 12. Other item information besides the fifth item information 12 may also be referred to. The actual carbon dioxide emissions after carbon trading are guaranteed by the certifier 3 through certification 8. The certifier 3 is, for example, a public institution or a company / organization commissioned by a public institution. Appropriate certification 8 prevents greenwashing, which is a false impression of environmental consideration. Thus, the purchase selection support system 100 according to the third embodiment differs from the purchase selection support systems 100 according to the first to fourth embodiments in that it allows further reference to the fifth item information 12.

[0073] As explained above, the purchase selection support device 115 displays information on the purchaser 2's communication terminal 110, along with the product name of the purchase candidate, regarding its superior characteristics such as low carbon dioxide emissions during manufacturing or low power consumption not derived from renewable energy. Furthermore, information on certification 8 regarding the superior characteristics of low carbon dioxide emissions during manufacturing or low power consumption not derived from renewable energy is also presented to the purchaser 2. This allows the purchaser 2 to select a purchase product that is superior in terms of low carbon dioxide emissions during manufacturing or low power consumption not derived from renewable energy, while ensuring the reliability of the purchase candidate. As a result, products that are superior in terms of low carbon dioxide emissions during manufacturing or low power consumption not derived from renewable energy will be purchased, further reducing carbon dioxide emissions to the environment. In addition, this will lead to the development and sale of products with even lower net carbon dioxide emissions, further reducing carbon dioxide emissions to the environment.

[0074] (Fifth embodiment) The product selection support system 19 according to the fifth embodiment differs from the first to fourth embodiments in that the seller 1 can further provide the buyer 2 with information regarding the superior low carbon dioxide generation or power consumption during product use in the sixth product information 13. The differences from the product selection support system 19 according to the first to fourth embodiments will be explained below.

[0075] The sixth item of product information (item 13) may include information regarding the product's superior low carbon dioxide emissions or power consumption during use. This information is one aspect of environmentally friendly products. For products that operate while consuming energy, designing the product to reduce power consumption or fuel consumption can result in a state where the product "excels in low carbon dioxide emissions or power consumption during use."

[0076] The processing unit 152 of the purchase selection support device 115 according to this embodiment can, for example, display a sixth product information 13 (not shown) on the display image 40 (see Figure 1). That is, the processing unit 152 can generate sales information that further includes the sixth product information 13.

[0077] This allows buyer 2 to select and purchase items from the 5 potential purchase items, further referring to the 6th product information 13. Other product information besides the 6th product information 13 may also be referred to. Information regarding the superior low carbon dioxide emissions or power consumption during product use is guaranteed by certifier 3 with certification 8. Certifier 3 is, for example, a public institution or a company / organization commissioned by a public institution. Appropriate certification 8 prevents greenwashing, which is a false impression of environmental consideration. Thus, the purchase item selection support system 100 according to the fifth embodiment differs from the purchase item selection support system 100 according to the first to fourth embodiments in that it allows further reference to the fifth product information 12.

[0078] As explained above, the purchase selection support device 115 displays information on the purchaser 2's communication terminal 110, along with the product names of potential purchase items, regarding the superior low carbon dioxide emissions or power consumption during use of the products. Furthermore, information on certification 8 regarding the superior low carbon dioxide emissions or power consumption during use of the products is also presented to the purchaser 2. This allows the purchaser 2 to select a purchase item that is superior in terms of low carbon dioxide emissions or power consumption during use, while ensuring the reliability of the potential purchase items. As a result, products with superior low carbon dioxide emissions or power consumption during use will be purchased, further reducing carbon dioxide emissions to the environment. In addition, this will lead to the development and sale of products with even lower net carbon dioxide emissions, further reducing carbon dioxide emissions to the environment.

[0079] (Sixth Embodiment) The product selection support system 19 according to the sixth embodiment differs from the first to fifth embodiments in that the seller 1 can further provide the buyer 2 with information regarding the product information 14, including information that the product has superior low carbon dioxide emissions or power consumption when disposed of. The differences between the product selection support system 19 according to the first to fifth embodiments and the sixth embodiment will be explained below.

[0080] The seventh item, item 14, may include information regarding the low carbon dioxide emissions or energy consumption at the time of product disposal. This information is one aspect of environmentally friendly products. For example, by reducing the amount of fossil-derived raw materials used in products, packaging, and wrapping materials, it is possible to achieve a state where "the product has excellent low carbon dioxide emissions or energy consumption at the time of disposal."

[0081] The processing unit 152 of the purchase selection support device 115 according to this embodiment can, for example, display a seventh product information 143 (not shown) on the display image 40 (see Figure 1). That is, the processing unit 152 can generate sales information that further includes the seventh product information 14.

[0082] This allows buyer 2 to select and purchase items from the candidate items 5 by further referring to the seventh item information 14. Other item information besides the seventh item information 14 may also be referred to. Information regarding the low carbon dioxide emissions or power consumption at the time of product disposal is guaranteed by the certifier 3 with certification 8. The certifier 3 is, for example, a public institution or a company / organization commissioned by a public institution. Appropriate certification 8 prevents greenwashing, which is a false impression of environmental consideration. Thus, the purchase selection support system 100 according to the sixth embodiment differs from the purchase selection support systems 100 according to the first to fifth embodiments in that it allows further reference to the seventh item information 14.

[0083] As explained above, the purchase selection support device 115 displays information on the purchaser 2's communication terminal 110, along with the product name of the purchase candidate, regarding the superior low carbon dioxide emissions or power consumption at the time of disposal. Furthermore, information on certification 8 regarding the superior low carbon dioxide emissions or power consumption at the time of disposal is also presented to the purchaser 2. This allows the purchaser 2 to select a purchase product that is superior in terms of low carbon dioxide emissions or power consumption at the time of disposal, while ensuring the reliability of the purchase candidate. As a result, products that are superior in terms of low carbon dioxide emissions or power consumption at the time of disposal will be purchased, further reducing carbon dioxide emissions to the environment. In addition, this will lead to the development and sale of products with even lower net carbon dioxide emissions, further reducing carbon dioxide emissions to the environment.

[0084] (Seventh Embodiment) The product selection support system 19 according to the seventh embodiment differs from the first to sixth embodiments in that the seller 1 can further provide the buyer 2 with information regarding the superior environmentally conscious design of the product in the eighth product information 15. The differences between the product selection support system 19 according to the first to sixth embodiments and the seventh embodiment will be explained below.

[0085] The eighth item, item 15, can include information regarding the product's superior environmentally conscious design. For example, a product can be described as having "superior environmentally conscious design" by reducing the amount of fossil-derived raw materials used through miniaturization or material changes, reducing power consumption during use through improved performance, extending product lifespan through a design that is less prone to failure, designing a configuration that makes it easy to separate materials when discarded, or recycling discarded materials.

[0086] The processing unit 152 of the purchase selection support device 115 according to this embodiment can, for example, display an eighth piece of product information 153 (not shown) on the display image 40 (see Figure 1). That is, the processing unit 152 can generate sales information that further includes the eighth piece of product information 15.

[0087] This allows buyer 2 to select and purchase items from the candidate items 5 by further referring to the eighth item information 15. Other item information besides the eighth item information 15 may also be referred to. Information regarding the superior environmentally conscious design of a product is guaranteed by the certifier 3 with certification 8. The certifier 3 is, for example, a public institution or a company / organization commissioned by a public institution. Appropriate certification 8 prevents greenwashing, which is a misrepresentation of environmental considerations. Thus, the purchase selection support system 100 according to the seventh embodiment differs from the purchase selection support systems 100 according to the first to sixth embodiments in that it allows further reference to the eighth item information 15.

[0088] As explained above, the purchase selection support device 115 displays information on the purchaser 2's communication terminal 110, along with the product name of the product candidate, regarding the superior environmentally conscious design of the product. Furthermore, information on certification 8 regarding the superior environmentally conscious design is also presented to purchaser 2. This allows purchaser 2 to select a product with superior environmentally conscious design while ensuring the reliability of the product candidate. As a result, products with superior environmentally conscious design will be purchased, leading to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions to the environment. In addition, this will lead to the development and sale of products with even lower net carbon dioxide emissions, further reducing carbon dioxide emissions to the environment.

[0089] (Eighth embodiment) The purchase selection support system 19 according to the eighth embodiment differs from the first to seventh embodiments in that the seller 1 can further provide the purchaser 2 with information in the ninth product information 16 that the product was transported using electricity or fuel derived from renewable energy or plant-derived fuel. The differences between the purchase selection support system 19 according to the first to seventh embodiments and the eighth embodiment will be explained below.

[0090] Section 9, Product Information 16, may include information regarding whether the product was transported using electricity or fuel derived from renewable energy sources or plant-based fuels. This information is one aspect of environmentally friendly products. For example, transporting the product in an electric vehicle charged with electricity generated by solar panels or in a vehicle using biofuel can result in a product that "has superior carbon dioxide emissions during transportation."

[0091] The processing unit 152 of the purchase selection support device 115 according to this embodiment can, for example, display a ninth piece of product information 163 (not shown) on the display image 40 (see Figure 1). That is, the processing unit 152 can generate sales information that further includes the ninth piece of product information 16.

[0092] This allows buyer 2 to select and purchase items from the candidate items 5 by further referring to the ninth item information 16. Other item information besides the ninth item information 16 may also be referred to. Information regarding whether the goods were transported using electricity or fuel derived from renewable energy or plant-derived fuel is guaranteed by the certifier 3 with certification 8. The certifier 3 is, for example, a public institution or a company / organization commissioned by a public institution. Appropriate certification 8 prevents greenwashing, which is a false impression of environmental consideration. Thus, the purchase selection support system 100 according to the eighth embodiment differs from the purchase selection support systems 100 according to the first to seventh embodiments in that it allows further reference to the ninth item information 16.

[0093] As explained above, the purchase selection support device 115 displays information on the purchaser 2's communication terminal 110, along with the product name of the purchase candidate, and information regarding whether the product was transported using electricity or fuel derived from renewable energy or plant-derived fuel. Furthermore, information regarding certification 8 concerning whether the product was transported using electricity or fuel derived from renewable energy or plant-derived fuel is also presented to the purchaser 2. This allows the purchaser 2 to select a purchase product that has been transported using electricity or fuel derived from renewable energy or plant-derived fuel while ensuring the reliability of the purchase candidate. As a result, products transported using electricity or fuel derived from renewable energy or plant-derived fuel will be purchased, reducing carbon dioxide emissions to the environment. In addition, this will lead to the development and sale of products with even lower net carbon dioxide emissions, further reducing carbon dioxide emissions to the environment.

[0094] (Ninth Embodiment) The product selection support system 19 according to the ninth embodiment differs from the first to eighth embodiments in that the seller 1 can further provide the buyer 2 with information in the tenth product information 17, including information on products manufactured by companies or organizations certified by the certifier 3 as having excellent research and development activities that contribute to environmental protection. The differences between the product selection support system 19 according to the first to eighth embodiments and the ninth embodiment will be explained below.

[0095] Section 10, Product Information 17, may include information about products manufactured by companies or organizations certified by Certifier 3 as having excellent research and development activities that contribute to environmental protection. Examples of research and development that contributes to environmental protection include research and development related to waste and water recycling, non-fossil fuels, renewable energy, carbon capture and storage, and forest conservation.

[0096] The processing unit 152 of the purchase selection support device 115 according to this embodiment can, for example, display a 10th product information 173 (not shown) on the display image 40 (see Figure 1). That is, the processing unit 152 can generate sales information that further includes the 10th product information 17.

[0097] This allows buyer 2 to select and purchase items from the 5 potential purchase items, further referring to the 10th item information 17. They may also refer to other item information besides the 10th item information 17. Information regarding excellent research and development activities that contribute to environmental protection is guaranteed by certifier 3 with certification 8. Certifier 3 is, for example, a public institution or a company / organization commissioned by a public institution. Appropriate certification 8 prevents greenwashing, which is a false impression of environmental consideration.

[0098] Thus, the product selection support system 100 according to the ninth embodiment differs from the product selection support systems 100 according to the first to eighth embodiments in that it allows further reference to the tenth product information 17.

[0099] The execution of the research and development activities described above is certified by Certifier 3. Furthermore, the amount of environmental value is predetermined according to the content of each research and development activity. The amount of environmental value, which is a comprehensive numerical representation of the degree of achievement (indicating the extent to which the research and development activities have been achieved) and the degree of effort (indicating the extent of the effort put in), is also guaranteed by Certifier 3's certification 8. This degree of effort includes, for example, the time spent on the research and development activities, which is converted into points.

[0100] As explained above, the purchase selection support device 115 displays information on the purchaser 2's communication terminal 110, along with the product name of the product candidate, indicating that the product provider has excellent research and development activities that contribute to environmental protection. Furthermore, information on certification 8 regarding research and development activities that contribute to environmental protection is also presented to purchaser 2. This allows purchaser 2 to select products from providers with excellent research and development activities that contribute to environmental protection while ensuring the reliability of the product candidates. As a result, products from providers with excellent research and development activities that contribute to environmental protection will be purchased, leading to advancements in research and development that contributes to environmental protection and a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions into the environment.

[0101] (Tenth embodiment) The product selection support system 19 according to the 10th embodiment differs from the first to 9th embodiments in that the seller 1 can further provide the buyer 2 with information including that the product was manufactured by a company or organization certified by the certifier 3 as having excellent environmental protection or environmental awareness activities. The differences between the product selection support system 19 according to the first to 9th embodiments and the 11th product information 18 will be explained below.

[0102] Section 11, Product Information 18, may include information that the product was manufactured by a company or organization certified by a certifier for its excellent environmental protection or environmental awareness activities. Environmental protection activities include, for example, beach cleanup and greening activities such as tree planting, while environmental awareness activities include, for example, educating people about the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Tree planting also helps in carbon dioxide sequestration.

[0103] The processing unit 152 of the purchase selection support device 115 according to this embodiment can, for example, display an eleventh piece of product information 183 (not shown) on the display image 40 (see Figure 1). That is, the processing unit 152 can generate sales information that further includes the eleventh piece of product information 18.

[0104] This allows buyer 2 to select and purchase items from the candidate items 5 by further referring to the 11th item information 18. Other item information besides the 11th item information 18 may also be referred to. Information regarding excellent environmental protection or environmental awareness activities is guaranteed by the certifier 3 with certification 8. The certifier 3 is, for example, a public institution or a company / organization commissioned by a public institution. Appropriate certification 8 prevents greenwashing, which is a false impression of environmental consideration. Thus, the purchase selection support system 100 according to the 10th embodiment differs from the purchase selection support systems 100 according to the 1st to 9th embodiments in that it allows further reference to the 11th item information 18.

[0105] The environmental protection or environmental awareness activities described above are certified by Certifier 3. Furthermore, the amount of environmental value is predetermined according to the content of each activity. The total amount of environmental value, i.e., points that comprehensively quantify the degree of achievement (indicating the extent to which each activity is accomplished) and the degree of effort (indicating the extent of effort), is also guaranteed by Certifier 3's certification 8. This degree of effort includes, for example, the time spent on environmental protection or environmental awareness activities, which is converted into points.

[0106] As explained above, the purchase selection support device 115 displays information on the purchaser 2's communication terminal 110, along with the product names of potential purchase items, regarding the product providers' excellent environmental protection or environmental awareness activities. Furthermore, information on certification 8 regarding the excellent environmental protection or environmental awareness activities is also presented to purchaser 2. This ensures the reliability of the potential purchase items, allowing purchaser 2 to select products from providers with excellent environmental protection or environmental awareness activities. As a result, products from providers with excellent environmental protection or environmental awareness activities will be purchased, leading to the spread of environmental protection and environmental awareness activities and a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions into the environment.

[0107] (11th embodiment) Figure 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating the purchase item selection support system 19 according to the 11th embodiment. The purchase item selection support device 115 according to this embodiment is communicatively connected to the payment system 200. The purchase item selection support device 115 may be connected to the payment system 200 via the network 116, or it may be connected directly to the payment system 200.

[0108] In the purchase selection support device 115, the processing unit 152 transfers the commission calculated based on the estimated amount 92b (see Figure 5) to the payment system 200. The payment system 200 then processes the payment of the commission to the seller 1. An example of the commission payment process is described below. However, the content of the payment process is not limited to the following method.

[0109] The payment system 200 receives the payment along with the seller's identification number and the buyer's identification number from the communication unit 140. The payment system 200 also stores a database that associates the identification numbers with account numbers, for example, based on information supplied from the purchase item selection support device 115. The payment system 200 reads the account numbers corresponding to the respective identification numbers of seller 1 and buyer 2 that were transferred from the communication unit 140 from the database. The payment system 200 then performs the process of withdrawing the payment amount from buyer 2's account number and the process of transferring the withdrawn amount to seller 1's account number.

[0110] According to the embodiment described above, the payment system 30 processes the payment of the reward 4 to the business operator, thus streamlining the payment process. As a result, the convenience of the product selection service is further improved, which can further promote the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions.

[0111] Although several embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are presented only as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The novel system described herein can be implemented in a variety of other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made to the forms of the system described herein without departing from the spirit of the invention. The appended claims and equivalents are intended to include such forms and modifications that are included in the scope and spirit of the invention.

[0112] (12th embodiment) The product selection support system 19 according to the 12th embodiment differs from the first to 11th embodiments in that it further includes an authentication device 111 that can be used by the certifier 3 who authenticates the products. The differences from the product selection support system 19 according to the first to 11th embodiments will be explained below.

[0113] Figure 10 shows a schematic configuration of the product selection support system 19 according to the 12th embodiment. As shown in Figure 10, the product selection support system 19 according to the 12th embodiment further comprises an authentication device 111.

[0114] The authentication device 111 is a device that can be used by the certifier 3 to authenticate a product via the communication line 116. For example, when the certifier 3 grants and guarantees authentication 8, the authentication device 111 stores the product name, certifier name, net carbon dioxide emissions, etc., associated with the authentication number of authentication 8, according to the input processing of the certifier 3. This allows the authentication device 111 to verify the information associated with the authentication number, as will be described later. The authentication device 111 also transmits the product name, certifier name, net carbon dioxide emissions, etc., associated with the authentication number, along with the authentication number, to the communication terminal 109 of the seller 1 who has received authentication 8 via the communication line 116. In this embodiment, the authentication device 111 is singular, but is not limited to this. For example, there may be multiple authentication devices 111. Alternatively, communication with the communication terminal 109 may be performed directly without using the communication line 116. Or, the certifier 3 may grant authentication 8 to the product by other means.

[0115] Here, with reference to Figure 3, the details of the management unit 150 of the purchase item selection support device 115 according to the 12th embodiment will be explained using Figure 11. Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of an input image generated by the management unit 150 according to the 12th embodiment.

[0116] When the processing unit 152 (see Figure 3) receives a request signal for generating carbon dioxide-related information from the seller 1 via the communication line 116, it transmits the image signal of the input image 9a to the communication terminal 109. When the image signal of the input image 9a is transmitted to the communication terminal 109, the input image 9a is displayed on the output unit 170 of the communication terminal 109. The input image 9a displays, for example, a field 90a with the text "Candidate name of purchased item 90b", a field 94a with the text "Name of certifier", a field 96a with the text "Net carbon dioxide emissions", and a field 98a with the text "Certification number" indicating that it has been certified by certifier 3.

[0117] Seller 1 inputs information into the fields for the candidate purchase name 90b, the certifier name 94b, the net carbon dioxide emissions 96b, and the certification number 98b, which are the standard content fields, using the communication terminal 109. In this way, the information entered in the fields for the candidate purchase name 90b, the certifier name 94b, the net carbon dioxide emissions 96b, and the certification number 98b is associated with the image signal of image 9a. When seller 1 inputs using the communication terminal 109 according to the input image 9a, the basic information of the second product information 9 is generated. The communication terminal 109 transmits a carbon dioxide emissions information signal, which includes the information entered in the fields for the candidate purchase name 90b, the certifier name 94b, and the net carbon dioxide emissions 96b, to the product selection support device 115.

[0118] As shown again in Figure 3, the processing unit 152 determines, based on the carbon dioxide emission information signal, whether or not the basic information of the second product information 9 has been entered via the input image 9a. If the basic information of the second product information 9 has not been entered, the processing unit 152 displays a warning message on the communication terminal 109. This allows the communication terminal 109 to re-enter the information. On the other hand, if the processing unit 152 determines that the basic information of the second product information 9 has been entered, it transmits the information contained in the received carbon dioxide emission information signal as a verification signal to the authentication device 111 (see Figure 10) via the communication line 116.

[0119] The authentication device 111 (see Figure 10) verifies each piece of information based on the authentication information contained in the verification signal. If the verification results match, the authentication device 111 returns a verification approval signal; if they do not match, it returns a verification mismatch signal.

[0120] When the processing unit 152 receives a verification and approval signal, it stores second product information 9 in the storage unit 130, associated with the seller 1 and the candidate purchase item 5, based on the carbon dioxide emission information signal. In this embodiment, the entry in the "Net Carbon Dioxide Emissions 96b" column corresponds to information regarding net carbon dioxide emissions, and at least one of the entries in the "Certifier Name 94b" column and the "Certification Number 98b" column corresponds to certification information indicating that the product has been certified by the certifier 3.

[0121] On the other hand, when the processing unit 152 receives a mismatch signal, it displays a warning on the communication terminal 109 indicating that the basic information of the second product information 9 has not been authenticated by the certifier name 94b. This allows the communication terminal 109 to re-enter the information.

[0122] In this way, the image signal of image 9a is associated with the information entered in the fields for the candidate purchase name 90b, the certifier name 94b, the net carbon dioxide emissions 96b, and the certification number 98b, which are the reference content. When seller 1 inputs the information using the communication terminal 109 according to the input image 9a, the basic information of the second product information 9 is generated. The communication terminal 109 transmits a carbon dioxide emissions information signal, which includes the information entered in the fields for the candidate purchase name 90b, the certifier name 94b, the net carbon dioxide emissions 96b, and the certification number 98b, which are the reference content, to the product selection support device 115.

[0123] The product selection support device 115 transmits a verification signal corresponding to the carbon dioxide emission information signal to the authentication device 111 (see Figure 10). The authentication device 111 (see Figure 10) then verifies the information contained in the carbon dioxide emission information signal and ensures that the certifier 3 has granted the certification 8. As mentioned above, the certifier 3 is, for example, a public institution or a company / organization commissioned by a public institution. This more reliably prevents greenwashing, which is a practice that gives the false impression of environmental consideration through appropriate certification 8.

[0124] When the processing unit 152 of the management unit 150 receives the first product information 6 and the verified second product information 9, it generates sales information using the information stored in the storage unit 130. The sales information includes, for example, the product (candidate purchase item) 5 (see Figure 1), information 9 (see Figure 1) regarding the net carbon dioxide emissions of the product, and at least one of the authentication information 94b (see Figure 11) and authentication number 98b (see Figure 11) indicating that the information regarding the net carbon dioxide emissions has been authenticated 8 by the certifier 3. In this embodiment, at least one of the authentication information 94b (see Figure 11) and authentication number 98b (see Figure 11) corresponds to the authentication information.

[0125] As can be seen from this, the information including the entries in the fields for the candidate purchase name 90b, the certifier name 94b, the net carbon dioxide emissions 96b, and the certification number 98b, which are the standard content, is configured not to generate sales information unless it is certified by the certification device 111. In this way, it is possible to have different levels of approval for the information related to the standard content associated with the image signal of input image 9a and the information related to the standard content associated with the image signal of input image 6a.

[0126] In other words, by approving the information related to authentication 8 via the authentication device 111, it is possible to prevent seller 1 from tampering with the information related to authentication 8. On the other hand, since the entries in the column for estimated price 92b and other fields are based on free competition among sellers 1, it is possible to lower the level of approval. In this embodiment, the image signal of input image 9a corresponds to the first image signal, and the image signal of input image 5a corresponds to the second image signal.

[0127] When the processing unit 152 receives a request signal for purchase information from the purchaser 2's communication terminal 110 via the communication line 116, it transmits sales information to the communication terminal 110. For example, the processing unit 152 causes the purchaser 2's communication terminal 110 to display the display image 40 (see Figure 1) from the purchase item selection support system 19 via the communication unit 140 and the communication line 116. In this case, the processing unit 152 can display the amount entered in the estimated amount 92b field in the first product information 6 generated by the purchase item selection support system 19, and the information entered in the certifier name 94b field and the information entered in the net carbon dioxide emissions 96b field in the second product information 9.

[0128] Next, with reference to Figure 12, the operation of the product selection support device 115 according to the 12th embodiment will be described. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation flow of the product selection support device 115 according to the 12th embodiment. Here, we will describe the case where the first product information 6 and the second product information 9 are registered simultaneously. Note that the processing of N in steps S100 to S106 is the same as in Figure 6, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0129] If the processing unit 152 determines that the basic information of the first product information 6 and the second product information 9 has been entered (Y in step S106), the processing unit 152 transmits a verification signal based on the carbon dioxide emission information signal based on the information entered in the input image 9a, and causes the authentication device 111 (see Figure 10) to perform verification (step S110). If the processing unit 152 determines that the verification does not match (N in step S110), it transmits warning information indicating that the item is not approved to the communication terminal 109 of the seller 1 via the communication line 116 (step S112).

[0130] On the other hand, if the processing unit 152 determines that the matching is correct (Y in step S110), it generates a display image 40 (see Figure 1) from the purchase item selection support system 19 as sales information, and transmits it via the communication line 116 to the communication terminal 109 of each seller 1 and the communication terminal 110 of each buyer 2, making it public or notifying them (step S114). Thus, this sales information includes the first product information 6 and the matched second product information 9.

[0131] Next, a system user such as purchaser 2 selects a candidate purchase name 90b by referring to the publicly available or notified product information via the input unit 160 of the communication terminal 110, and notifies the processing unit 152 of the purchase selection support device 11 via the communication line 116 (step S116). The processing unit 152 generates purchase information including information about purchaser 2 of the selected candidate purchase name 90b, and displays it on the communication terminal 109 of seller 1 of the selected candidate purchase name 90b as the selection result of purchaser 2.

[0132] Next, if seller 1 accepts buyer 2's purchase request, seller 1 sends an input signal indicating acceptance via communication terminal 109 to buyer 2's communication terminal 110 via processing unit 152 (step S118). This enables seller 1 and buyer 2 to buy and sell goods.

[0133] As described above, the processing unit 152 transmits a verification signal based on the carbon dioxide emission information signal to the authentication device 111, causing the authentication device 111 to perform the verification. This prevents the seller 1 from tampering with the information related to certification 8 by approving it via the authentication device 111. [Explanation of symbols]

[0134] 1: Seller, 2: Buyer, 3: Authenticator, 4: Platform, 5: Potential purchase item, 6: First product information, 8: Authentication, 9: Second product information, 19: Purchase item selection support system, 40, 40a: Display image, 94b: Authenticator name, 109: Seller's communication terminal (second communication terminal), 110: Buyer's communication terminal (first communication terminal), 111: Authentication device, 115: Purchase item selection support device (main server), 116: Communication line (network), 125: Seller's input data, 129: Information data, 140: Communication unit, 150: Management unit, 160: Input unit, 170: Output unit, 200: Payment system.

Claims

1. A purchase selection support device capable of providing information on product options via a communication line, A management unit that generates sales information including at least the aforementioned product, environmental value-related information relating to the global environment of the aforementioned product, and certification information indicating that the environmental value-related information has been certified by a certifying body, The system includes a communication unit that provides the aforementioned sales information to the purchaser's first communication terminal via the aforementioned communication line, The management unit generates purchaser name information when the product in the sales information is selected using the first communication terminal. The communication unit transmits the purchaser name information to the second communication terminal of the seller of the product selected by the purchaser via the communication line. The aforementioned environmental value-related information is The actual carbon dioxide emissions after carbon trading related to the aforementioned product, Product information demonstrating the superiority of low carbon dioxide emissions or low non-renewable energy consumption during the manufacturing of the aforementioned product. Product information demonstrating the superior low carbon dioxide emissions or non-renewable energy consumption during use of the aforementioned product, and A purchase selection support device that provides at least one of the following product information: product information indicating that the amount of carbon dioxide generated or the amount of electricity consumed that is not derived from renewable energy is superior when the aforementioned product is disposed of.

2. A purchase selection support device capable of providing information on product options via a communication line, A management unit that generates sales information including at least the aforementioned product, environmental value-related information relating to the global environment of the aforementioned product, and certification information indicating that the environmental value-related information has been certified by a certifying body, The system includes a communication unit that provides the aforementioned sales information to the purchaser's first communication terminal via the aforementioned communication line, The management unit generates purchaser name information when the product in the sales information is selected using the first communication terminal. The communication unit transmits the purchaser name information to the second communication terminal of the seller of the product selected by the purchaser via the communication line. The aforementioned environmental value-related information is Product information demonstrating superior environmentally conscious product design, Product information indicating that the aforementioned product was transported using electricity or fuel derived from renewable energy or plant-derived fuel, Product information indicating that the aforementioned product was manufactured by a company or organization that excels in research and development activities that contribute to environmental protection, and A product selection support device that provides at least one piece of product information indicating that the aforementioned product was manufactured by a company or organization that excels in environmental protection activities or environmental awareness activities.

3. The aforementioned sales information includes information on the estimated price of the aforementioned product. The aforementioned communication unit is responsively connected to a settlement system that processes the payment of a remuneration based on the estimated amount from the buyer to the seller. The purchase item selection support device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the communication unit transfers information relating to the reward to the payment system.

4. A method for supporting the selection of purchased items that can provide information on product options via a communication line, A step of generating sales information which includes at least the aforementioned product, environmental value-related information relating to the global environment of the aforementioned product, and certification information indicating that the environmental value-related information has been certified by a certifying body. The process of providing the aforementioned sales information to the purchaser's first communication terminal via the aforementioned communication line, When a product in the aforementioned sales information is selected using the first communication terminal, the process of generating purchaser name information is performed. The process includes transmitting the aforementioned buyer name information to the second communication terminal of the seller of the product selected by the buyer via the communication line, Equipped with, The aforementioned environmental value-related information is The actual carbon dioxide emissions after carbon trading related to the aforementioned product, Product information demonstrating the superiority of low carbon dioxide emissions or low non-renewable energy consumption during the manufacturing of the aforementioned product. Product information demonstrating the superior low carbon dioxide emissions or non-renewable energy consumption during use of the aforementioned product, and A method for supporting the selection of purchased items, comprising at least one of the following product information: product information indicating that the amount of carbon dioxide generated or the amount of electricity consumed that is not derived from renewable energy is superior when the aforementioned product is disposed of.

5. A method for supporting the selection of purchased items that can provide information on product options via a communication line, A step of generating sales information which includes at least the aforementioned product, environmental value-related information relating to the global environment of the aforementioned product, and certification information indicating that the environmental value-related information has been certified by a certifying body. The process of providing the aforementioned sales information to the purchaser's first communication terminal via the aforementioned communication line, When a product in the aforementioned sales information is selected using the first communication terminal, the process of generating purchaser name information is performed. The process includes transmitting the aforementioned buyer name information to the second communication terminal of the seller of the product selected by the buyer via the communication line, Equipped with, The aforementioned environmental value-related information is Product information demonstrating superior environmentally conscious product design, Product information indicating that the aforementioned product was transported using electricity or fuel derived from renewable energy or plant-derived fuel, Product information indicating that the aforementioned product was manufactured by a company or organization that excels in research and development activities that contribute to environmental protection, and A method for supporting the selection of purchased items, wherein the aforementioned product is provided with at least one piece of product information indicating that the product was manufactured by a company or organization that excels in environmental protection activities or environmental awareness activities.

6. A purchase selection support device that can provide information on product options via a communication line, A first communication terminal of a purchaser who purchases the product via the aforementioned communication line, A purchase item selection support system comprising a second communication terminal of a seller that sells the product via the aforementioned communication line, The product selection support device is A management unit that generates sales information including at least the aforementioned product, environmental value-related information relating to the global environment of the aforementioned product, and certification information indicating that the environmental value-related information has been certified by a certifying body, The system includes a communication unit that provides the aforementioned sales information to the first communication terminal via the aforementioned communication line, The management unit generates purchaser name information when a product in the sales information is selected using the first communication terminal. The communication unit transmits the purchaser name information to the second communication terminal of the seller of the product selected by the purchaser via the communication line. The aforementioned environmental value-related information is The actual carbon dioxide emissions after carbon trading related to the aforementioned product, Product information demonstrating the superiority of low carbon dioxide emissions or low non-renewable energy consumption during the manufacturing of the aforementioned product. Product information demonstrating the superior low carbon dioxide emissions or non-renewable energy consumption during use of the aforementioned product, and A product selection support system that provides product information indicating that the aforementioned product is superior in either the amount of carbon dioxide generated at the time of disposal or the amount of electricity consumed that is not derived from renewable energy.

7. A purchase selection support device that can provide information on product options via a communication line, A first communication terminal of a purchaser who purchases the product via the aforementioned communication line, A purchase item selection support system comprising a second communication terminal of a seller that sells the product via the aforementioned communication line, The product selection support device is A management unit that generates sales information including at least the aforementioned product, environmental value-related information relating to the global environment of the aforementioned product, and certification information indicating that the environmental value-related information has been certified by a certifying body, The system includes a communication unit that provides the aforementioned sales information to the first communication terminal via the aforementioned communication line, The management unit generates purchaser name information when a product in the sales information is selected using the first communication terminal. The communication unit transmits the purchaser name information to the second communication terminal of the seller of the product selected by the purchaser via the communication line. The aforementioned environmental value-related information is Product information demonstrating superior environmentally conscious product design, Product information indicating that the aforementioned product was transported using electricity or fuel derived from renewable energy or plant-derived fuel, Product information indicating that the aforementioned product was manufactured by a company or organization that excels in research and development activities that contribute to environmental protection, and A product selection support system that includes at least one piece of product information indicating that the aforementioned product was manufactured by a company or organization that excels in environmental protection activities or environmental awareness activities.

8. A program that causes a computer to perform a process to assist in selecting purchased items, which can provide information about product options via a communication line, A step of generating sales information which includes at least the aforementioned product, environmental value-related information relating to the global environment of the aforementioned product, and certification information indicating that the environmental value-related information has been certified by a certifying body. The process of providing the aforementioned sales information to the purchaser's first communication terminal via the aforementioned communication line, When a product in the aforementioned sales information is selected using the first communication terminal, the process of generating purchaser name information is performed. The process includes transmitting the aforementioned purchaser name information to the second communication terminal of the seller of the product selected by the purchaser via the communication line, The aforementioned environmental value-related information is The actual carbon dioxide emissions after carbon trading related to the aforementioned product, Product information demonstrating the superiority of low carbon dioxide emissions or low non-renewable energy consumption during the manufacturing of the aforementioned product. Product information demonstrating the superior low carbon dioxide emissions or non-renewable energy consumption during use of the aforementioned product, and A program for a computer to be executed, which is at least one of the following product information indicating that the product is superior in terms of low carbon dioxide emissions or low energy consumption not derived from renewable energy sources when the product is disposed of.

9. A program that causes a computer to perform a process to assist in selecting purchased items, which can provide information about product options via a communication line, A step of generating sales information which includes at least the aforementioned product, environmental value-related information relating to the global environment of the aforementioned product, and certification information indicating that the environmental value-related information has been certified by a certifying body. The process of providing the aforementioned sales information to the purchaser's first communication terminal via the aforementioned communication line, When a product in the aforementioned sales information is selected using the first communication terminal, the process of generating purchaser name information is performed. The process includes transmitting the aforementioned purchaser name information to the second communication terminal of the seller of the product selected by the purchaser via the communication line, The aforementioned environmental value-related information is Product information demonstrating superior environmentally conscious product design, Product information indicating that the aforementioned product was transported using electricity or fuel derived from renewable energy or plant-derived fuel, Product information indicating that the aforementioned product was manufactured by a company or organization that excels in research and development activities that contribute to environmental protection, and A program to be run on a computer, which is at least one of the product information indicating that the aforementioned product was manufactured by a company or organization that excels in environmental protection activities or environmental awareness activities.

10. The device further includes an authentication device usable by an certifier who authenticates the environmental value-related information via the aforementioned communication line, The purchase item selection support system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein when the certifier certifies the environmental value-related information, the certifying device is used, and the communication unit transmits the environmental value-related information relating to the global environment concerning the product and the certification information of the environmental value-related information to the certifying device.

11. The communication unit transmits to the second communication terminal a first image signal that generates a first image for inputting environmental value-related information relating to the global environment concerning the product and authentication information for the environmental value-related information, and a second image signal that generates a second image for inputting the product name and the estimated price of the product. The second communication terminal transmits the environmental value-related information and authentication information associated with the first image signal, the product name and estimated price of the product associated with the second image signal, via the communication line to the communication unit through the input section of the second communication terminal. The communication unit transmits the environmental value-related information and authentication information associated with the first image signal to the authentication device. The purchase item selection support system according to claim 10, wherein the management unit evaluates and approves that the authentication device has authenticated the environmental value-related information and authentication information associated with the first image signal when the authentication device has authenticated them.

12. The purchase item selection support system according to claim 11, wherein the management unit generates the sales information using the environmental value-related information and authentication information associated with the first image signal authenticated by the authentication device, and the product name and estimated price information associated with the second image signal.

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