Proposing a carbon reduction engineering framework for product design: a multi-scenario perspective

Climate change and resource scarcity have underscored the need for sustainable product design strategies. This study introduces the Carbon Reduction Engineering Framework, a systematic approach that integrates carbon footprint reduction into product design while maintaining functionality, manufacturability, and lifecycle performance. It consists of four sequential phases: product digitalization, diagnostic analysis, product redesign and carbon footprint recalculation, and definition and selection of carbon reduction scenarios. The framework was demonstrated using a tricycle case study, achieving a 9.3% reduction in carbon footprint for a combined redesign scenario. Key modifications included geometry optimization, material substitution, and joint redesign, targeting high-impact components such as rims and mainframe. The results highlight the proposed approach to prioritize high-impact areas and balance environmental benefits with technical feasibility. Moreover, the proposed framework supports modularity and circularity principles, facilitating repair, remanufacturing, and recycling. In addition, it offers a robust tool for integrating sustainability into diverse design processes. Future work should explore dynamic lifecycle data integration, advanced manufacturing technologies, and broader economic implications.