Environmental Management for System Engineering Projects : A Case Study on How to Bridge the Gap between Ambition and Action

Abstract: This thesis focuses on addressing the challenge of managing the climate impact of system engineering projects within a large global industrial company. The research design is a case study within the selected company, and it integrates qualitative and quantitative methodologies to provide a holistic understanding of environmental challenges. The principal objective is to provide direction on efficient management of system engineering projects’ environmental footprint delivered by large global industrial companies. This is achieved by quantifying greenhouse gas emissions and identifying critical factors that significantly influence environmental outcomes. Based on the results together with the qualitative results from the interviews, effective countermeasures have been developed to reach set science-based emission reduction targets aligned with the Paris Agreement. The research has contributed to a better understanding of the climate impact of system engineering projects, provided guidance on measuring their environmental impact and offered strategies for reducing GHG emissions to mitigate climate change risks. The thesis further delves into various relevant concepts, including system engineering, science-based emission reduction targets, carbon footprint analysis, motivators and barriers for greenhouse gas emissions reductions and the decarbonization of system engineering projects.  The research underscores the importance of user-friendly calculations of CO2e emissions aligned with ISO standards. It also emphasizes the necessity of addressing emissions throughout the value chain and optimizing key components for achieving successful outcomes. Furthermore, standardization and incorporating environmental considerations during the design phases are highlighted as important aspects supporting science-based emission reduction targets. To conclude, this research aims to provide valuable insights into effectively managing the climate impact of system engineering projects in a large global industrial company. It offers practical strategies, recommendations, and considerations to support a company's sustainability goals and environmental commitments.