Business model life cycle inventory analysis of Factorylux modular office lighting fixture

The substantial material consumption and greenhouse gas emissions attributed to lighting underscore the urgency for energy-efficient, resource-conscious manufacturing approaches and business models. This research investigates the potential for reducing material usage and carbon emissions by transitioning to a circular business model (BM) within the context of modular office lighting fixtures, designed and assembled by Factorylux. One fixture unit produces 8850 lumens. This study focuses on material usage during the production and assembly stages. It utilizes primary data from Factorylux and secondary data from the Idemat 2023 database to calculate the embodied carbon from cradle-to-gate. A life cycle inventory analysis (LCIA) was conducted using Microsoft Excel for data analysis. The circular BM parameters were defined through discussions with Factorylux and existing literature. Results highlight the composition of one fixture unit, weighing 23.58 kg with an associated embodied carbon of 152.85 kg. A sensitivity analysis reveals potential material and embodied carbon savings of 27–45 % through circular BM adoption, contingent upon material reusability rates. Aluminium, steel, and copper emerge as key contributors to both material usage and carbon footprint, with aluminium particularly dominant. The research supports the adoption of a Lighting-as-a-Service (LaaS) BM by Factorylux, promoting product reuse and aligning with circular design principles, offering ecological and economic benefits. It also suggests exploring alternative materials and increasing recycled content for aluminium, steel, and copper. Furthermore, it recommends comprehensive life cycle analysis (LCA) combined with cost analysis to inform circular strategies and marketing approaches. Despite limitations, this study emphasizes the significance of LCIA within LCA, particularly in assessing the environmental impact of manufacturing processes in luminaire studies. Its novel contribution lies in defining circular BM parameters and comparing material usage and embodied carbon between linear and circular BM for a specific luminaire manufacturer, offering insights into the evolving circular business landscape.