Life Cycle–Driven Innovation and Supply Chain Decarbonization in Wind Energy

Abstract. This study examines how a leading wind turbine manufacturer integrates Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) into corporate strategy to reduce product carbon intensity and drive supply chain decarbonization, with a focus on the transformative potential of green steel. A mixed-methods design combined qualitative document analysis of 32 Vestas LCA reports (2007–2025) with quantitative trend analysis and scenario modelling. Carbon intensity trends were linked to turbine design evolution, and prospective impacts of green steel adoption were modelled using established emission factors. Turbine carbon intensities declined from ~9 g CO₂/kWh in early models to ~5 g in recent designs, driven by upscaling, efficiency gains, and material innovations. Green steel adoption could reduce life-cycle intensities by 40–60%, avoiding up to 310 Mt CO₂ globally by 2030. Findings extend sustainability transitions theory by showing how LCA functions as a strategic intermediary tool, bridging technical product innovation with systemic supply chain change. LCA-driven design and material strategies can enhance environmental performance, competitive advantage, and supply chain collaboration in renewable energy industries. This is the first empirical study linking detailed turbine-level LCA data to corporate strategy, prospective green steel adoption, and global supply chain de-carbonization scenarios