Blockchain-based carbon footprint tracing method for photovoltaic panel supply chain

This paper presents a blockchain-based method for tracing the carbon footprint in the photovoltaic (PV) panel supply chain. As global attention to climate change intensifies, reducing greenhouse gas emissions has become an urgent priority. Traditional methods for managing supply chain carbon footprints face challenges such as difficulties in data collection and lack of transparency. With the distributed ledger, immutability, and multi-party collaboration features of blockchain technology, this study develops a reliable and transparent method for tracing the carbon footprint within the PV supply chain, along with a model for recording the carbon footprint. The method spans the life cycle from cradle to the gate of the supply chain. Through case analysis, we demonstrate the system's strengths in enhancing the credibility of carbon footprint information, fostering supply chain collaboration, and identifying key areas for emission reduction. The case results indicate that blockchain technology can address data traceability in traditional carbon footprint management, providing technical support for the low-carbon development of the PV industry. This research not only offers PV companies an effective tool for managing carbon emissions but also provides a reference method for tracing carbon footprints in other manufacturing supply chains.