Smart Factory and Sustainable Carbon Footprint & Supply Chain Management
In an era where climate change is a global risk, the industrial sector faces dual pressures: enhancing competitiveness through technology and reducing environmental impacts concretely. That is, [1] accurate carbon footprint assessment across the entire value chain has become a crucial condition for entering the global market, especially under environmentally conscious trade measures such as the EU's CBAM. [2] Therefore, a Smart Factory is not merely a technological choice, but a strategic management approach that integrates digitalization with sustainability goals. This article analyzes the role of smart factories in creating a comprehensive and efficient system for tracking, measuring, and managing greenhouse gas emissions, which serves as a vital foundation for international standard certification and long-term competitive advantage. Concept and Meaning of Smart Factory in the Dimension of Sustainability A Smart Factory is a data-driven manufacturing ecosystem through the deep integration of Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT). [3] The clear distinction from traditional factories lies in breaking down data “silos” by connecting data from the shop floor to the management level in real time. In the context of sustainability, a Smart Factory acts as an “environmental data processing center” that transforms every step of manufacturing activities into quantifiable, trackable data regarding energy consumption, raw materials, and pollution emissions. This shifts environmental management from estimation to precise measurement and proactive management. […]