Information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program

Abstract

In a technology for calculating the effectiveness of investments to reduce GHG emissions while considering internal carbon pricing, we would like to use actual values ​​related to the amount of activity that contributes to GHG emissions when calculating the effectiveness of investments to reduce GHG emissions through simulation. [Solution] The information processing device 100 includes a simulation unit 120 that calculates the greenhouse gas emissions during the target period as target emissions based on activity data, which is data corresponding to the target period and shows the actual value of the amount of activity corresponding to emission activities that emit greenhouse gases in the target organization, and calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure in each period after the target period based on emission data showing the amount of greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization in each period prior to the target period, the target emissions, internal carbon pricing in the target organization, and reduction measure information showing each reduction measure in the target organization.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and an information processing program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, attention to carbon neutrality has been increasing, and GHG (Greenhouse Gas) emissions may be considered when making an investment plan. Here, only the calculation and visualization of GHG emissions do not directly lead to corporate profits. Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for reducing the amount of calculation in a process of determining an investment plan for greenhouse gas emission countermeasures in consideration of internal carbon pricing.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003] ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Based on activity data, which is data corresponding to the target period including the target time point and which shows the actual value of activity corresponding to emission activities that emit greenhouse gases in the target organization, the greenhouse gas emissions during the target period are calculated as the target emissions. A simulation unit calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period after the target period, based on emission data showing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization in each period prior to the target period, the target emissions, ICP information showing the internal carbon pricing of the target organization, and reduction measure information showing each reduction measure for reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization. It is equipped with. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to this disclosure, the simulation unit calculates the greenhouse gas emissions during the target period as the target emissions. The simulation unit also calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure for each period after the target period based on the emissions data, the target emissions, ICP information, and reduction measure information. Accordingly, according to this disclosure, in a technology for calculating the effectiveness of investments to reduce GHG emissions while considering internal carbon pricing, actual values ​​related to activity levels that contribute to GHG emissions can be used when calculating the effectiveness of investments to reduce GHG emissions through simulation. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] A diagram illustrating the outline of the information processing system 90 according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] A diagram showing an example configuration of the information processing system 90 according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] This diagram illustrates the processing of the operating device 200 according to Embodiment 1, where (a) is a diagram illustrating the upload process and (b) is a diagram illustrating the backup process. [Figure 4]This diagram illustrates the processing of the operating device 200 according to Embodiment 1, where (a) is a diagram illustrating the download process and (b) is a diagram illustrating the backup process. [Figure 5] A diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 100 according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] A flowchart illustrating the operation of the information processing system 90 according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] A flowchart illustrating the operation of the information processing system 90 according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] A table showing activity level data 291 according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] A table showing activity level data 291 according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 10] A table showing ICP information 292 and emissions data 293 related to Embodiment 1. [Figure 11] A table showing reduction measures information 294 related to Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] A table showing the monthly emission reduction amount according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 13] A table showing the simulation results related to Embodiment 1. [Figure 14] A table showing the past reduction measures DB191 related to Embodiment 1. [Figure 15] This figure shows an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 100 according to a modified example of Embodiment 1. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] In the descriptions and drawings of the embodiments, the same elements and corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numerals. The descriptions of elements denoted by the same reference numerals are omitted or simplified as appropriate. The arrows in the figures mainly indicate the flow of data or processing. Also, "part" may be read as "circuit," "device," "equipment," "process," "step," "procedure," "processing," or "circuitry" as appropriate. The functions of each part of each device may be realized by firmware, software, hardware, or a combination thereof.

[0009] Embodiment 1. Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0010] ***Description of the configuration*** FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an outline of characteristic processing in the information processing system 90. The information processing system 90 functions like an energy data version of the Internet of Things (IoT), collects and manages data associated with the amount of activity related to emissions without human intervention, visualizes various data, and creates reports on emissions. The information processing system 90 consists of, as specific examples, a local environment and a cloud environment. The local environment consists of, as a specific example, a system owned by a user who uses services provided by a cloud environment (information processing device 100). The user is, as a specific example, a customer of a business operator that provides services using the information processing device 100. The cloud environment consists of, as a specific example, a cloud system owned by a business operator that provides cloud services. When the activity amount data 291 and the ICP information 292 are uploaded from the local environment to the cloud environment, the processing of the activity amount data 291 is appropriately executed. The processing of the activity amount data 291 is, as a specific example, cleansing processing and aggregation targeting the activity amount data. At this time, as a specific example, the GHG (Greenhouse Gas) emissions are calculated from the activity amount data 291, and the calculated GHG emissions are converted into ICP. The processed activity amount data 291 is stored in the cloud environment. Also, based on the ICP information 292 and the reduction measure information 294 uploaded from the local environment to the cloud environment, and the data corresponding to the uploaded reduction measure information 294 among the data stored in the past reduction measure DB 191, the GHG emission reduction amount is converted into ICP.

[0011] Regarding the data stored in the cloud environment, the user may be able to select how to use and display it. As a specific example, the data may be visualized by collaborating with a BI (Business Intelligence) service that visualizes GHG. Also, the data may be utilized for analysis and the like in other systems. As specific examples, GHG includes at least one of carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gas. "Emission amount" basically refers to the emission amount of GHG. "Emission amount" is also called GHG emission amount. "Emission amount" may refer to the amount of GHG actually emitted or the amount of GHG expected to be emitted in the future. As a specific example, "emission amount" is a value calculated by multiplying the activity amount related to the emission of GHG by the emission factor. As a specific example, "emission amount" is a value calculated by (power consumption) × (emission factor) or (transportation distance) × (cargo weight) × (emission factor). The emission factor may be a value determined in the emission unit database provided by the Ministry of the Environment. The emission unit database is revised in a timely manner. The emission factor may be a value determined in the latest emission unit database.

[0012] The activity amount data 291 is data corresponding to the target period including the target time point, and is data indicating the actual value of the activity amount corresponding to the emission activity that emits GHG in each organization. Also, the activity amount data 291 is data indicating the activity amount related to the emission of GHG, and is data indicating numerical values related to activities related to the emission of GHG. As a specific example, the activity amount data 291 consists of data generated in the entire manufacturing business, such as at least one of procurement data, sales data, manufacturing data, power data, and design data. The activity amount data 291 may be data obtained in the country or base where the emission activity was executed. The activity amount data 291 may be data indicating the actual value of the activity amount obtained during the data acquisition period. The data acquisition period is the period from the start of the target period to the target time point. Each organization may be called the target organization. The length of the target period may be any length, such as one year, one month, or one day. In the activity data 291, the time range for summarizing activity levels may be a period divided into any time interval, such as years, months, or days. Activity data 291 includes specific examples such as MES (Manufacturing Execution System) and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Access Control). The data is acquired through a proprietary system such as Data Acquisition (PLM), Product Lifecycle Management (PDM), Enterprise Resources Planning (ERP), Energy Management System (xEMS), or a proprietary system. The activity data 291 includes, as an example, at least one item such as "sales quantity," "procurement quantity," "fuel consumed," and "electricity payment." The activity data 291 may also include items that combine multiple items, such as "transportation distance" x "cargo weight." Furthermore, the program may be implemented so that when upload data is extracted in a local environment in a format such as CSV (Comma Separated Values) and output to a designated location, the upload data is automatically uploaded to the cloud environment. In this case, the effort required for complex specification adjustments in data linkage can be reduced.

[0013] ICP Information 292 is information indicating the ICP set by each organization. The ICP value may differ from organization to organization and may also differ over time. ICP Information 292 may be information that has been updated at least once prior to the target time. Organizations can be, for example, companies, schools, or government agencies. Organizations may also be factories or bases of companies, etc. Multiple organizations may be treated as a single organization. For example, several bases of a company located within a certain region may be treated as a single organization.

[0014] Reduction measure information 294 is information that shows each reduction measure to reduce GHG emissions in each organization. Reduction measure information 294 may also be information that shows each reduction measure in each organization. Reduction measure information 294 may also be information received from customers. Reduction Measure Information 294, as a specific example, shows for each organization each reduction measure, the amount of reduction corresponding to each reduction measure, the time when each reduction measure was introduced, and the amount of investment corresponding to each reduction measure. Reduction Measure Information 294 may also show for each reduction measure the amount of reduction during a certain period and the monetary value corresponding to the amount of reduction during that period. The length of that period may be, as a specific example, one year, one month, or one day. Reduction measures are measures taken to reduce emissions. "Reduction amount" basically refers to the amount of GHG emissions reduced in accordance with reduction measures.

[0015] Figure 2 shows an example configuration of the information processing system 90 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the information processing system 90 comprises an information processing device 100 and an operating device 200. The information processing device 100 comprises a communication unit 110, a simulation unit 120, and a storage unit 190. The information processing device 100 is implemented, in specific examples, in a cloud environment. The operating device 200 comprises an upload unit 210, a download unit 220, and a storage unit 290. The operating device 200 is implemented, in a specific example, in a local environment. Multiple operating devices 200 may exist. Different operating devices 200 may be used in each of multiple organizations.

[0016] The communication unit 110 receives data from the operating device 200 and outputs data to the operating device 200.

[0017] The simulation unit 120 calculates the target emissions of GHGs during the target period based on the activity data 291. The simulation unit 120 also calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated in the reduction measure information 294 for each period after the target period, based on the emissions data 293, the target emissions, the ICP information 292, and the reduction measure information 294. ICP stands for Internal Carbon Pricing. The length of each period can be any length, such as one year, one month, or one day. The simulation unit 120 may calculate the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information 294 for each period after the target period, based on past reduction measure data showing the actual results for each reduction measure, which is at least one reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information 294. The simulation unit 120 may also calculate the investment recovery period for each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information 294, based on the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information 294 for each period including the target period, and the reduction measure information 294. The simulation unit 120 may calculate the target reduction amount, which is the amount of GHG reduction for the target organization during the target period, based on the emissions data 293 and the target emissions. In this case, the simulation unit 120 may allocate the target reduction amount to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information 294 during the target period, based on past reduction measure data or the investment amount corresponding to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information 294. The simulation unit 120 may calculate the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information 294 during the target period, based on the target reduction amount allocated to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information 294 and the ICP information 292. Specifically, the simulation unit 120 calculates the reduction amount corresponding to each reduction measure and the monetary value corresponding to each reduction measure for each period by performing an emissions simulation for each organization based on activity data 291, ICP information 292, emissions data 293, and reduction measure information 294. As a specific example, the simulation unit 120 simulates, for a given organization, how much cost-effectiveness can be expected in the future by introducing each reduction measure, based on activity data 291 of that organization, emissions calculated for that organization, the ICP set for that organization, and the investment amount of each reduction measure implemented by that organization. The simulation unit 120 may calculate emissions on a calculation period desired by the user, such as monthly, weekly, or daily. This allows for real-time updates of emissions and estimated cost-effectiveness, which is expected to lead to more accurate simulations.

[0018] Emissions data 293 is data showing emissions. Emissions data 293 may also be data showing each organization's GHG emissions for each period prior to the target period. Emissions data 293 may also be data showing actual and target emissions for each organization. Emissions data 293 may be data showing emissions for each period divided into arbitrary time intervals, such as yearly, monthly, or daily.

[0019] The memory unit 190 stores various types of data. The Past Reduction Measures DB191 stores past reduction measures data showing the reduction amount corresponding to each existing reduction measure. Specifically, for each item, the Past Reduction Measures DB191 stores data showing each reduction measure implemented in the past and the effect of each reduction measure. The Past Reduction Measures DB191 may also show data corresponding to each organization. The Past Reduction Measures DB191 does not necessarily have to show one or more reduction measures indicated in the Reduction Measures Information 294.

[0020] The upload unit 210 uploads data used in the simulation for calculating investment effectiveness to the information processing device 100. Figure 3 illustrates an example of the processing performed by the upload unit 210. As shown in Figure 3(a), a data upload program is installed in any area within the operating device 200 that stores the CSV files to be uploaded to the information processing device 100. The data upload program is a batch file and is not a resident program; it is only launched when data collection is needed. The data upload program may also be automatically launched and terminated at desired times by configuring the Task Scheduler. Alternatively, the data upload program may be launched manually. As shown in Figure 3(b), when the data upload program is running, each file stored in the same folder as the folder where the data upload program is stored is uploaded to the information processing device 100. Each file (=each uploaded file) is then moved to a backup folder in the operating device 200.

[0021] The download unit 220 downloads data from the information processing device 100. This data, in particular, is data showing simulation results. Figure 4 illustrates an example of the processing performed by the download unit 220. The processing performed by the download unit 220 is broadly similar to that performed by the upload unit 210. As shown in Figure 4(a), the download unit 220 installs a data download program in any area within the operating device 200 that stores the calculation results of the information processing device 100. The data download program, like the data upload program, is a batch file and is not a resident program; it only starts when data is being downloaded. The data download program can be automatically started and stopped at desired times by configuring the Task Scheduler. The data download program can also be started manually. The latest calculation results are stored in the same folder as the data download program. As shown in Figure 4(b), when the data download program is started and new calculation results are stored in the folder, previous calculation results are saved to a backup folder within the operating device 200.

[0022] The memory unit 290 stores various types of data.

[0023] Figure 5 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 100 according to this embodiment. The information processing device 100 consists of a computer. The information processing device 100 may consist of multiple computers.

[0024] As shown in this figure, the information processing device 100 is a computer equipped with hardware such as a processor 11, memory 12, auxiliary storage device 13, input / output interface 14, and communication device 15. These hardware components are connected as appropriate via signal lines 19.

[0025] The processor 11 is an integrated circuit (IC) that performs arithmetic operations and controls the hardware of the computer. Specific examples of the processor 11 include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The information processing device 100 may include multiple processors that replace the processor 11. The multiple processors share the role of the processor 11.

[0026] Memory 12 is typically a volatile storage device, specifically RAM (Random Access Memory). Memory 12 is also called main memory. Data stored in memory 12 is saved to auxiliary storage device 13 as needed.

[0027] The auxiliary storage device 13 is typically a non-volatile storage device, specifically a ROM (Read Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or flash memory. Data stored in the auxiliary storage device 13 is loaded into memory 12 as needed. The memory 12 and the auxiliary storage device 13 may be configured as a single unit.

[0028] Input / Output IF14 is a port to which input and output devices are connected. A specific example of an input / output IF14 is a USB (Universal Serial Bus) terminal. Specific examples of input devices include a keyboard and mouse. Specific examples of output devices include a display.

[0029] The communication device 15 consists of a receiver and a transmitter. A specific example of the communication device 15 is a communication chip or a NIC (Network Interface Card).

[0030] Each part of the information processing device 100 may use the input / output IF 14 and the communication device 15 as appropriate when communicating with other devices.

[0031] The auxiliary storage device 13 stores an information processing program. The information processing program is a program that enables the computer to implement the functions of each part of the information processing device 100. The information processing program is loaded into memory 12 and executed by the processor 11.

[0032] Data used when executing an information processing program, and data obtained by executing an information processing program, are appropriately stored in a memory device. Each part of the information processing device 100 utilizes the memory device as appropriate. The memory device, specifically, consists of at least one of the following: memory 12, auxiliary memory device 13, registers in the processor 11, and cache memory in the processor 11. Note that the terms "data" and "information" are sometimes synonymous. The memory device may be independent of the computer. The functions of memory 12 and auxiliary storage device 13 may be implemented by other storage devices.

[0033] The information processing program may be recorded on a computer-readable non-volatile recording medium. Specific examples of non-volatile recording media include optical discs or flash memory. The information processing program may also be provided as a program product. The hardware configuration of the operating device 200 may be the same as that of the information processing device 100.

[0034] ***Explanation of operation*** The operating procedures for each device in the information processing system 90 are collectively referred to as the information processing method. Furthermore, the programs that implement the operation of each device in the information processing system 90 are collectively referred to as the information processing program.

[0035] Figures 6 and 7 are flowcharts illustrating an example of the operation of the information processing system 90. The operation will be explained using Figures 6 and 7. In Figures 6 and 7, a simulation is performed for the target organization using data collected at a target point in time within the target fiscal year, with the target fiscal year as the basis. The target fiscal year is, for example, fiscal year 20XX. The month to which the target point in time belongs is defined as the target month. The target fiscal year corresponds to the target period. Each fiscal year prior to the target fiscal year corresponds to each period prior to the target period. Each fiscal year after the target fiscal year corresponds to each period after the target period.

[0036] (Step S101) The upload unit 210 uploads activity data 291 collected during the target year, ICP information 292, emission data 293 showing emissions for each year prior to the target year, reduction measure information 294, and past reduction measure data to the information processing device 100. Figures 8 and 9 show an example of one activity data set 291. In the activity data 291 in Figures 8 and 9, past months represent actual emission values, while months including the target time and future months may represent planned activity values ​​or may be left blank. In the example in Figures 8 and 9, the activity values ​​for each month corresponding to a certain item are the same, but in reality, they are often different. The actual monthly emission values ​​from the activity data 291 may be stored in the memory unit 190 or memory unit 290 for future simulations. Figure 10 shows an example of ICP information 292 and emissions data 293. In the example in Figure 10, the values ​​for each year corresponding to the ICP are the same, but they may be different. In the example in Figure 10, the symbols E11 to E16 and E21 to E25 are shown as target emissions and actual emissions, but these may be values ​​collected in advance from the customer. Also, E21 to E25 may be emission values ​​calculated by the simulation unit 120 in the past when the relevant year was the target year, or emission values ​​calculated using a past year as the target year. Figure 11 shows an example of reduction measure information 294. While the data corresponding to CO2 emissions are shown as examples, data corresponding to other types of GHGs or multiple types of GHGs may also be used.

[0037] (Step S102) The communication unit 110 receives various data uploaded by the upload unit 210. If the target point in time is the end of the fiscal year, that is, if the activity data 291 shows the activity levels for all months in the target fiscal year, the information processing system 90 proceeds to step S103. Otherwise, that is, if the activity data 291 does not show the activity levels from the target month onward in the target fiscal year, the information processing system 90 proceeds to step S104. The activity data 291 is, in specific examples, data collected from customers.

[0038] (Step S103) The simulation unit 120 uses activity data 291 to calculate monthly actual emissions for the target year. For example, the simulation unit 120 may calculate the actual emission values ​​by multiplying each item of the activity data 291 and the monthly activity data for the target year by an emission coefficient predetermined for each item, and then sum up the actual emission values ​​for all items on a monthly basis. The actual monthly emissions figures may be stored in the storage unit 190 or storage unit 290 as emissions data for future simulations, in the format shown in Figure 10, or in a different format than that shown in Figure 10.

[0039] (Step S104) The simulation unit 120 calculates monthly actual emission values ​​for the period from the start of the target fiscal year to one month prior to the target month, using activity data 291. The simulation unit 120 estimates emissions on a monthly basis based on actual values ​​for the period from the target month to the end of the target fiscal year. In this case, the simulation unit 120 may also estimate emissions using the activity plan for each month. For example, the simulation unit 120 may calculate the actual emission values ​​by multiplying each item of the activity data 291 and the monthly activity data (actual emission values) for the target year by an emission coefficient predetermined for each item for the period from the start of the target year to one month before the target month, and then sum up the actual emission values ​​for all items on a monthly basis. For example, the simulation unit 120 may calculate estimated emissions by multiplying each item of the activity data 291 and the monthly activity data (planned activity value) for the target year by an emission coefficient predetermined for each item for the period from the target month to the end of the target year, and then sum up the estimated emissions for all items on a monthly basis. Alternatively, for months where activity data (planned activity value) is not determined (blank), the estimated emissions may be calculated by multiplying the activity data of the most recent actual month by the emission coefficient, or by multiplying the value obtained by dividing the emissions for the previous year of the target year (actual emissions for fiscal year 20XX-1 in Figure 10) by 12 by a coefficient predetermined for each item and month. In this case, the coefficient predetermined for each item and month is a value that takes into account the rate of seasonal variation for each item of the activity data 291.

[0040] (Step S105) The simulation unit 120 calculates the annual data for the target year by summing up the emissions for each month in the target year. The calculated annual data corresponds to the data in the lower right column of the table shown in Figure 10. Furthermore, the simulation unit 120 outputs the emissions for each year prior to the target year based on the emissions data 293.

[0041] (Step S106) The simulation unit 120 calculates the emission reduction amount from the monthly emissions (actual or estimated values) for the target year, and then calculates the emission reduction amount for each reduction measure for the target year by allocating the calculated emission reduction amount to each reduction measure. Figure 12 shows an example at the stage where the output monthly emission reduction amount has been allocated to each reduction measure. The curve in Figure 12 actually represents a single table. For example, the simulation unit 120 may have emission reduction allocation ratios for allocating the emission reduction amount to each reduction measure. The emission reduction allocation ratios are set for each reduction measure and for the period (e.g., fiscal year) in which the same reduction measure is applied. In the example in Figures 12 and 13, in 20XX, the six emission reduction allocation ratios for reduction measures No. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 are set to total 1, in 20XX-1, the two emission reduction allocation ratios for reduction measures No. 2 and 5 are set to total 1, and in 20XX-2, the emission reduction allocation ratio for reduction measure No. 5 is set to 1. For example, the simulation unit 120 may calculate the monthly emission reduction for each month of the target year by subtracting the emission amount for the same month of the previous year from the emission amount for that month calculated in steps S103 and S104, multiply this by the annual emission reduction allocation ratio to obtain the reduction amount for that month and for each reduction measure, and then sum these up for each reduction measure to obtain the annual emission reduction amount for each reduction measure. The values ​​set for each reduction measure and each month in Figure 12 are values ​​calculated in this way. Figure 14 shows an example of past reduction measures data. The "Reduction Amount" column in Figure 14 shows the reduction amount for one year. Although not shown, past reduction measures data may also have a "Year of Introduction" column. The reduction measures shown in Figure 14 are different from the reduction measures shown in Figures 11, 12, and 13, respectively, but the same reduction measures as those shown in reduction measures information 294 may be defined in the past reduction measures data. Methods for allocating the reduction amount to each reduction measure include, as a concrete example, simply allocating the reduction amount to each reduction measure according to the investment amount corresponding to each reduction measure, or allocating the reduction amount to each reduction measure based on past reduction measure data, and also using an input method. This section explains a method of simply allocating the reduction amount to each reduction measure according to the investment amount corresponding to each reduction measure. Figure 11 shows an example of reduction measure information 294. Reduction measure information 294 is set for the target year. The "introduction year" and "investment amount" for each reduction measure are obtained from the past reduction measure data in Figure 14. For reduction measures not shown in Figure 14, the user may input the information. The "investment amount" for each reduction measure may be a different value from that in Figure 14, reflecting the circumstances of the target year. The "investment amount" in Figure 11 is synchronized with the "investment amount" in Figure 12. Furthermore, the allocation ratio of emission reductions may be set so that the total is 1 based on the investment amount of each reduction measure (which is the investment amount in Figure 11, and the investment amount in Figure 11 may be the investment amount in Figure 14). Then, based on the allocation ratio of emission reductions, the monthly emission reduction amount is multiplied by the allocation ratio of emission reductions as described above to obtain the reduction amount for that month and for each reduction measure, and by summing these up for each reduction measure, the annual emission reduction amount for each reduction measure can be obtained. This section explains how to allocate reduction amounts to each reduction measure based on past reduction measure data. For example, the reduction amount in Figure 14 is calculated based on the reduction amount in the year of introduction and the reduction amount in the previous year. For example, in the example in Figure 11, no reduction measures were introduced in FY20XX-3, but reduction measure No. 5 was introduced in FY20XX-2, reduction measure No. 2 was added in FY20XX-1, and reduction measures No. 1, 3, 4, and 6 were added in FY20XX. Here, in fiscal year 20XX, the annual reduction amount for No. 5 is set to the annual reduction amount for fiscal year 20XX-2, the annual reduction amount for No. 2 is set to the annual reduction amount for fiscal year 20XX-1, and the annual reduction amounts for No. 1, 3, 4, and 6 may be based on input values, or they may be calculated by multiplying the monthly average of the actual monthly reduction amounts (excluding estimated values) for each month of the target fiscal year by 12, subtracting the annual reduction amounts for No. 5 and No. 2, and dividing by the number of implemented measures No. 1, 3, 4, and 6 (4). The reduction amounts for each reduction measure calculated in this way are set at an appropriate time and stored in the storage unit 190 or storage unit 290 as past reduction measure data. Unless overwritten, these values ​​may be used thereafter. Furthermore, based on the reduction amounts for each reduction measure in the past reduction measure data (Figure 14), the emission reduction allocation ratio may be set so that the total is 1. Then, based on the allocation ratio of emission reductions, the monthly emission reduction amount is multiplied by the allocation ratio of emission reductions as described above to obtain the reduction amount for that month and for each reduction measure, and by summing these up for each reduction measure, the annual emission reduction amount for each reduction measure may be obtained, or the monetary value may be calculated by converting the annual emission reduction amount to ICP. The reduction amounts and monetary value in Figure 11, and the reduction amounts and monetary value for fiscal year 20XX in Figure 13, are examples of values ​​calculated in this manner. The monthly and annual emission reductions and their monetary value for each reduction measure may be stored in the memory unit 190 or memory unit 290 as reduction measure information in the format shown in Figure 11, or in a different format, for future simulations. The annual emission reductions for each reduction measure may be overwritten in Figure 13 as past reduction measure data at the end of the target year.

[0042] (Step S107) Steps S107 through S112 are repeated for each reduction measure. For each reduction measure whose corresponding implementation year is earlier than the target year, step S108 is executed. For each reduction measure whose corresponding implementation year is on or after the target year, step S108 is skipped.

[0043] (Step S108) The simulation unit 120 calculates, for each reduction measure, the total reduction amount for the period from the year in which the reduction measure was introduced to the year preceding the target year, and the monetary value corresponding to the total reduction amount, based on the past reduction measure DB 191, ICP information 292, and reduction measure information 294. In this case, the simulation unit 120 may, as a specific example, calculate the total reduction amount by obtaining the annual emission reduction amounts calculated in step S106 in the past and stored in the storage unit 190 or storage unit 290 for each year from the year in which the reduction measure was introduced to the year preceding the target year, and summing them up, or it may calculate the monetary value by converting the total reduction amount to ICP. Each column in the table shown in Figure 13, corresponding to "Past Performance," shows the performance up to fiscal year 20XX-1, and shows an example of the total reduction amount and monetary value calculated in this step. The result calculated in step S108 represents the actual reduction effect.

[0044] (Step S109) The simulation unit 120 simulates the amount of reduction and its monetary value for each reduction measure in each fiscal year following the target fiscal year, based on the past reduction measures DB 191, ICP information 292, and reduction measures information 294. In this process, the simulation unit 120 simulates reduction amounts for 5 to 10 years as a specific example. The columns corresponding to "Fiscal Year 20XX+1" and beyond in the "Simulation Results" table shown in Figure 13 correspond to the calculation results in this step. For example, the simulation unit 120 may use the annual reduction amount corresponding to each reduction measure obtained from the past reduction measures DB 191 as the reduction amount corresponding to each reduction measure in future years (each year following the target year and beyond). The monetary value may be calculated by converting the reduction amount into ICP.

[0045] (Step S110-Step S112) The simulation unit 120 adds the monetary value of each year to the total monetary value, starting from the target year, for each reduction measure. The year in which the total monetary value first exceeds the investment amount corresponding to the reduction measure is designated as the investment recovery period for that reduction measure. The total monetary value is 0 in the initial state. Specifically, the simulation unit 120 adds the monetary value of each year to the total monetary value, starting from the target year, for a given reduction measure. When the total monetary value in a given year first exceeds the investment amount corresponding to that reduction measure, that year is designated as the investment recovery period for that reduction measure. The "Investment Recovery Period" column in the table shown in Figure 13 corresponds to the calculation results in this step. The results calculated in steps S109 to S112 represent the simulation results.

[0046] (Step S113) The communication unit 110 outputs reduction measure information 294, reduction effect results, and simulation results to the operating device 200.

[0047] ***Explanation of the effects of Embodiment 1*** As described above, this embodiment uses the ICP set up by each organization. Therefore, it is possible to estimate cost-effectiveness in a way that is tailored to individual companies and with relatively high accuracy.

[0048] Furthermore, some companies update ICP data regularly. Examples of such regular updates include annual updates or updates due to exchange rate fluctuations. Therefore, by uploading the ICP data to the information processing device 100 at the time of simulation, it is possible to accommodate these regular ICP data updates.

[0049] Furthermore, in order to estimate the expected cost-effectiveness of each reduction measure, data showing the cost-effectiveness of each reduction measure in the past is necessary. In this embodiment, a larger amount of data is used compared to conventional technology. Therefore, it is expected that a more high-performance simulation function will be developed by utilizing this embodiment. Furthermore, in this embodiment, if reduction measures are introduced before the target year, the amount of reduction from the time the reduction measures were introduced to the target year is estimated and reflected in the simulation results. Therefore, according to this embodiment, relatively accurate simulation results can be output.

[0050] Furthermore, conventional visualization systems for GHG emissions are used in areas such as calculating, visualizing, and linking GHG emissions. However, these visualization systems cannot be considered solutions that can be directly used in GHG emission reduction activities. On the other hand, if the functions of this embodiment are implemented in the visualization system, it is expected that the visualization system will be used by companies and other organizations to calculate criteria for making decisions regarding decarbonization management, such as determining how much cost-effectiveness can be expected when introducing each reduction measure, and which product can be introduced to most efficiently produce results in reduction activities.

[0051] ***Other configurations*** <Example 1> Figure 15 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 100 according to this modified example. The information processing device 100 includes a processor 11, a processor 11 and memory 12, a processor 11 and auxiliary storage device 13, or a processing circuit 18 instead of a processor 11, memory 12 and auxiliary storage device 13. The processing circuit 18 is hardware that implements at least a part of each component of the information processing device 100. The processing circuit 18 may be dedicated hardware, or it may be a processor that executes the program stored in memory 12.

[0052] When the processing circuit 18 is dedicated hardware, specific examples of the processing circuit 18 include a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a combination thereof. The information processing device 100 may include multiple processing circuits that replace the processing circuit 18. The multiple processing circuits share the role of the processing circuit 18.

[0053] In the information processing device 100, some functions may be implemented by dedicated hardware, while the remaining functions may be implemented by software or firmware.

[0054] The processing circuit 18 can be implemented, in specific examples, by hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof. The processor 11, memory 12, auxiliary storage device 13, and processing circuit 18 are collectively referred to as the "processing circuitry." In other words, the functions of each functional component of the information processing device 100 are realized by the processing circuitry. The operating device 200 may also be the same as in this modified example.

[0055] ***Other Embodiments*** Although Embodiment 1 has been described, multiple parts of this embodiment may be combined and implemented. Alternatively, this embodiment may be implemented partially. Furthermore, this embodiment may be modified in various ways as needed, and may be implemented as a whole or in parts in any combination. The embodiments described above are essentially preferred examples and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure, its applications, or its uses. The procedures described using flowcharts, etc., may be modified as appropriate.

[0056] The various aspects of this disclosure are summarized below as an appendix.

[0057] (Note 1) Based on activity data, which is data corresponding to the target period including the target time point and which shows the actual value of activity corresponding to emission activities that emit greenhouse gases in the target organization, the greenhouse gas emissions during the target period are calculated as the target emissions. A simulation unit calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period after the target period, based on emission data showing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization in each period prior to the target period, the target emissions, ICP information showing the internal carbon pricing of the target organization, and reduction measure information showing each reduction measure for reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization. An information processing device equipped with the following features.

[0058] (Note 2) The simulation unit calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period after the target period, based on past reduction measure data showing the actual results for each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information, which is the information processing device described in Appendix 1.

[0059] (Note 3) The aforementioned simulation unit, Based on the aforementioned emissions data and the aforementioned target emissions, the amount of greenhouse gas reduction by the aforementioned organization during the aforementioned period is calculated as the target reduction amount. During the aforementioned target period, the target reduction amount is allocated proportionally to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information based on the past reduction measure data. An information processing device according to Appendix 2, which calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information during the target period, based on the target reduction amount allocated to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information and the ICP information.

[0060] (Note 4) The reduction measures information indicates the investment amount corresponding to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measures information, The aforementioned simulation unit, Based on the aforementioned emissions data and the aforementioned target emissions, the amount of greenhouse gas reduction by the aforementioned organization during the aforementioned period is calculated as the target reduction amount. During the aforementioned period, the target reduction amount is allocated proportionally to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information, based on the investment amount corresponding to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information. An information processing device according to Appendix 2, which calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information during the target period, based on the target reduction amount allocated to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information and the ICP information.

[0061] (Note 5) The aforementioned simulation unit, Based on the aforementioned emissions data and the aforementioned target emissions, the amount of greenhouse gas reduction by the aforementioned organization during the aforementioned period is calculated as the target reduction amount. During the aforementioned target period, the target reduction amount is allocated proportionally to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information, based on the reduction amount corresponding to each reduction measure shown by the past reduction measure data. An information processing device according to Appendix 2, which calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information during the target period, based on the target reduction amount allocated to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information and the ICP information.

[0062] (Note 6) The reduction measures information indicates the time when each reduction measure indicated in the reduction measures information was introduced in the target organization, and the investment amount corresponding to each reduction measure indicated in the reduction measures information. The simulation unit calculates the investment recovery period corresponding to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information, based on the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period including the target period, and the reduction measure information, according to any one of the information processing devices described in Appendix 1 to 5.

[0063] (Note 7) The ICP information is information that has been updated at least once before the aforementioned target time, as described in one of the information processing devices described in any one of the appendices 1 to 6. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0064] 11 Processor, 12 Memory, 13 Auxiliary storage device, 14 Input / Output IF, 15 Communication device, 18 Processing circuit, 19 Signal line, 90 Information processing system, 100 Information processing device, 110 Communication unit, 120 Simulation unit, 190 Storage unit, 191 Past reduction measures DB, 200 Operation device, 210 Upload unit, 220 Download unit, 290 Storage unit, 291 Activity data, 292 ICP information, 293 Emissions data, 294 Reduction measures information.

Claims

1. Based on activity data, which is data corresponding to the target period including the target time point and which shows the actual value of activity corresponding to emission activities that emit greenhouse gases in the target organization, the greenhouse gas emissions during the target period are calculated as the target emissions. A simulation unit calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period after the target period, based on emission data showing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization in each period prior to the target period, the target emissions, ICP information showing the internal carbon pricing of the target organization, and reduction measure information showing each reduction measure for reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization. An information processing device comprising, The simulation unit calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period after the target period, based on past reduction measure data showing the actual results for each reduction measure corresponding to at least one reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information. The aforementioned simulation unit, Based on the aforementioned emissions data and the aforementioned target emissions, the amount of greenhouse gas reduction by the aforementioned organization during the aforementioned period is calculated as the target reduction amount. During the aforementioned target period, the target reduction amount is allocated proportionally to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information based on the past reduction measure data. An information processing device that calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information during the target period, based on the target reduction amount allocated to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information and the ICP information.

2. Based on activity data, which is data corresponding to the target period including the target time point and which shows the actual value of activity corresponding to emission activities that emit greenhouse gases in the target organization, the greenhouse gas emissions during the target period are calculated as the target emissions. A simulation unit calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period after the target period, based on emission data showing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization in each period prior to the target period, the target emissions, ICP information showing the internal carbon pricing of the target organization, and reduction measure information showing each reduction measure for reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization. An information processing device comprising, The simulation unit calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period after the target period, based on past reduction measure data showing the actual results for each reduction measure corresponding to at least one reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information. The reduction measures information indicates the investment amount corresponding to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measures information, The aforementioned simulation unit, Based on the aforementioned emissions data and the aforementioned target emissions, the amount of greenhouse gas reduction by the aforementioned organization during the aforementioned period is calculated as the target reduction amount. During the aforementioned period, the target reduction amount is allocated proportionally to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information, based on the investment amount corresponding to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information. An information processing device that calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information during the target period, based on the target reduction amount allocated to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information and the ICP information.

3. Based on activity data, which is data corresponding to the target period including the target time point and which shows the actual value of activity corresponding to emission activities that emit greenhouse gases in the target organization, the greenhouse gas emissions during the target period are calculated as the target emissions. A simulation unit calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period after the target period, based on emission data showing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization in each period prior to the target period, the target emissions, ICP information showing the internal carbon pricing of the target organization, and reduction measure information showing each reduction measure for reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization. An information processing device comprising, The simulation unit calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period after the target period, based on past reduction measure data showing the actual results for each reduction measure corresponding to at least one reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information. The aforementioned simulation unit, Based on the aforementioned emissions data and the aforementioned target emissions, the amount of greenhouse gas reduction by the aforementioned organization during the aforementioned period is calculated as the target reduction amount. During the aforementioned target period, the target reduction amount is allocated proportionally to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information, based on the reduction amount corresponding to each reduction measure shown by the past reduction measure data. An information processing device that calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information during the target period, based on the target reduction amount allocated to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information and the ICP information.

4. The reduction measures information indicates the time when each reduction measure indicated in the reduction measures information was introduced in the target organization, and the investment amount corresponding to each reduction measure indicated in the reduction measures information. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the simulation unit calculates the investment recovery period corresponding to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information, based on the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period including the target period, and the reduction measure information.

5. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the ICP information is information that has been updated at least once prior to the target time.

6. Computers Based on activity data, which is data corresponding to the target period including the target time point and which shows the actual value of activity corresponding to emission activities that emit greenhouse gases in the target organization, the greenhouse gas emissions during the target period are calculated as the target emissions. Based on emission data showing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization in each period prior to the aforementioned target period, the target emissions, ICP information showing internal carbon pricing in the target organization, and reduction measure information showing each reduction measure for reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization, the monetary value of each reduction measure shown in the reduction measure information for each period after the aforementioned target period is calculated. Based on past reduction measure data showing the results corresponding to each reduction measure of at least one reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information, the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period after the target period is calculated. Based on the aforementioned emissions data and the aforementioned target emissions, the amount of greenhouse gas reduction by the aforementioned organization during the aforementioned period is calculated as the target reduction amount. During the aforementioned target period, the target reduction amount is allocated proportionally to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information based on the past reduction measure data. An information processing method for calculating the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information during the target period, based on the target reduction amount allocated to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information and the ICP information.

7. Computers Based on activity data, which is data corresponding to the target period including the target time point and which shows the actual value of activity corresponding to emission activities that emit greenhouse gases in the target organization, the greenhouse gas emissions during the target period are calculated as the target emissions. Based on emission data showing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization in each period prior to the aforementioned target period, the target emissions, ICP information showing internal carbon pricing in the target organization, and reduction measure information showing each reduction measure for reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization, the monetary value of each reduction measure shown in the reduction measure information for each period after the aforementioned target period is calculated. Based on past reduction measure data showing the results corresponding to each reduction measure of at least one reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information, the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period after the target period is calculated. The reduction measures information indicates the investment amount corresponding to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measures information, The aforementioned computer, Based on the aforementioned emissions data and the aforementioned target emissions, the amount of greenhouse gas reduction by the aforementioned organization during the aforementioned period is calculated as the target reduction amount. During the aforementioned period, the target reduction amount is allocated proportionally to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information, based on the investment amount corresponding to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information. An information processing method for calculating the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information during the target period, based on the target reduction amount allocated to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information and the ICP information.

8. Computers Based on activity data, which is data corresponding to the target period including the target time point and which shows the actual value of activity corresponding to emission activities that emit greenhouse gases in the target organization, the greenhouse gas emissions during the target period are calculated as the target emissions. Based on emission data showing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization in each period prior to the aforementioned target period, the target emissions, ICP information showing internal carbon pricing in the target organization, and reduction measure information showing each reduction measure for reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization, the monetary value of each reduction measure shown in the reduction measure information for each period after the aforementioned target period is calculated. Based on past reduction measure data showing the results corresponding to each reduction measure of at least one reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information, the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period after the target period is calculated. Based on the aforementioned emissions data and the aforementioned target emissions, the amount of greenhouse gas reduction by the aforementioned organization during the aforementioned period is calculated as the target reduction amount. During the aforementioned target period, the target reduction amount is allocated proportionally to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information, based on the reduction amount corresponding to each reduction measure shown by the past reduction measure data. An information processing method for calculating the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information during the target period, based on the target reduction amount allocated to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information and the ICP information.

9. Based on activity data, which is data corresponding to the target period including the target time point and which shows the actual value of activity corresponding to emission activities that emit greenhouse gases in the target organization, the greenhouse gas emissions during the target period are calculated as the target emissions. A simulation process that calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period after the target period, based on emission data showing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization in each period prior to the target period, the target emissions, ICP information showing the internal carbon pricing of the target organization, and reduction measure information showing each reduction measure for reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization. An information processing program that causes an information processing device, which is a computer, to execute, In the simulation process described above, the monetary value of each reduction measure described in the reduction measure information for each period after the target period is calculated based on past reduction measure data showing the actual results for each reduction measure corresponding to at least one reduction measure described in the reduction measure information, In the aforementioned simulation process, Based on the aforementioned emissions data and the aforementioned target emissions, the amount of greenhouse gas reduction by the aforementioned organization during the aforementioned period is calculated as the target reduction amount. During the aforementioned target period, the target reduction amount is allocated proportionally to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information based on the past reduction measure data. An information processing program that calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information during the target period, based on the target reduction amount allocated to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information and the ICP information.

10. Based on activity data, which is data corresponding to the target period including the target time point and which shows the actual value of activity corresponding to emission activities that emit greenhouse gases in the target organization, the greenhouse gas emissions during the target period are calculated as the target emissions. A simulation process that calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period after the target period, based on emission data showing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization in each period prior to the target period, the target emissions, ICP information showing the internal carbon pricing of the target organization, and reduction measure information showing each reduction measure for reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization. An information processing program that causes an information processing device, which is a computer, to execute, In the simulation process described above, the monetary value of each reduction measure described in the reduction measure information for each period after the target period is calculated based on past reduction measure data showing the actual results for each reduction measure corresponding to at least one reduction measure described in the reduction measure information, The reduction measures information indicates the investment amount corresponding to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measures information, In the aforementioned simulation process, Based on the aforementioned emissions data and the aforementioned target emissions, the amount of greenhouse gas reduction by the aforementioned organization during the aforementioned period is calculated as the target reduction amount. During the aforementioned period, the target reduction amount is allocated proportionally to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information, based on the investment amount corresponding to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information. An information processing program that calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information during the target period, based on the target reduction amount allocated to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information and the ICP information.

11. Based on activity data, which is data corresponding to the target period including the target time point and which shows the actual value of activity corresponding to emission activities that emit greenhouse gases in the target organization, the greenhouse gas emissions during the target period are calculated as the target emissions. A simulation process that calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information for each period after the target period, based on emission data showing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization in each period prior to the target period, the target emissions, ICP information showing the internal carbon pricing of the target organization, and reduction measure information showing each reduction measure for reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of the target organization. An information processing program that causes an information processing device, which is a computer, to execute, In the simulation process described above, the monetary value of each reduction measure described in the reduction measure information for each period after the target period is calculated based on past reduction measure data showing the actual results for each reduction measure corresponding to at least one reduction measure described in the reduction measure information, In the aforementioned simulation process, Based on the aforementioned emissions data and the aforementioned target emissions, the amount of greenhouse gas reduction by the aforementioned organization during the aforementioned period is calculated as the target reduction amount. During the aforementioned target period, the target reduction amount is allocated proportionally to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information, based on the reduction amount corresponding to each reduction measure shown by the past reduction measure data. An information processing program that calculates the monetary value of each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information during the target period, based on the target reduction amount allocated to each reduction measure indicated by the reduction measure information and the ICP information.

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