University of Bath

This thesis explores the future carbon footprints of batteries and passenger cars through a prospective life cycle assessment (pLCA), utilizing climate mitigation pathways derived from integrated assessment models (IAMs). The objective is to evaluate the potential impact of different scenarios on the carbon emissions resulting from the production and use of these technologies. A detailed methodology involving the attributional approach of pLCA is employed to capture both direct and indirect effects across various stages of the life cycle. The results highlight significant variations in carbon footprint projections depending on the specific pathways and assumptions applied within IAMs. Moreover, while IAMs effectively assess global warming potential, they show limitations in accounting for other environmental impacts such as resource use and toxicities, indicating a need for improved representation of these factors within IAM frameworks. Recommendations are provided for integrating life-cycle indicator targets back into the IAMs to enhance the environmental assessment and explore more comprehensive decarbonization solutions. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the environmental implications of battery and passenger car technologies within the context of climate change mitigation efforts.