Cradle-To Life Cycle Assessment of Heavy Machinery Manufacturing: a Case Study in Türkiye

Abstract

Purpose: Amidst accelerated industrialization and urbanization, the surge in heavy equipment production, crucial for construction, mining, industry, and transportation, necessitates a comprehensive examination of its environmental implications from a sustainability standpoint. This study aims to scrutinize the environmental impacts of manufacturing forklifts and semi-trailers in Türkiye, employing the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. Methods: The life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology is the foundational framework for evaluating the environmental impacts associated with forklift and semi-trailer manufacturing. A cradle-to-gate approach was employed. CCaLC2 software alongside the Ecoinvent 3.0 database and CML LCIA methodology was used. Results: The carbon footprint analysis reveals that the production of a single forklift and semi-trailer generates 10.8 tons CO2eq. and 24.9 tons CO2eq. of emissions, respectively. Considering the mass of the machinery, these figures translate to 2.8 ton CO2eq./ton machinery and 1.57 ton CO2eq/ton machinery for the forklift and semi-trailer, respectively. These results were found to be consistent with values reported for similar (but not identical) heavy machinery. Notably, the predominant share of environmental impact stems from raw material acquisition for both products, with subsequent contributions from various production stages. Steel utilization emerges as the primary contributor to all environmental impact categories, constituting an average contribution of 75%. Noteworthy exceptions include the acidification potential of forklift production, where the incorporation of the engine emerges as the primary hotspot with a significant 38% contribution. Conclusions: The findings present the environmental footprint associated with forklift and semi-trailer manufacturing, emphasizing the pivotal role of raw material acquisition, particularly steel utilization. Insights derived from this environmental impact assessment provide invaluable guidance for enhancing environmental sustainability. Decision-makers and industry stakeholders can leverage these conclusions to implement targeted measures, such as exploring alternative materials or refining production processes, to mitigate the environmental consequences of resource-intensive heavy equipment manufacturing, aligning with broader sustainability objectives. © The Author(s) 2025.