Work

Life cycle assessment and cost analysis of locally made solar powered cooler for vaccine storage

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Storing vaccines and perishable food in regions without access to the national grid presents significant challenges. Solar power generation technologies have emerged as a viable alternative solution to address these issues. This study conducted a life cycle assessment (LCA) and cost analysis (CA) of the locally developed solar-powered cooler to assess its economic viability and potential environmental impacts. The cooler was designed to preserve vaccines and perishable foods for use, especially in areas with no electricity connectivity, as a cheaper alternative to electricity-powered coolers. The results of LCA show that battery manufacturing was a slightly higher contributor to environmental impacts across various indicators, with terrestrial ecotoxicity identified as the highest impact among other environmental impacts. Cost analysis results further revealed that a solar-powered cooler project demonstrated a positive economic outlook, with the unit manufacturing cost estimated at USD 2682. This quantitative analysis of life cycle and cost will help decision-makers comprehend both the economic aspects and environmental impacts throughout the life cycle of locally manufactured solar-powered coolers. Such insights will be instrumental in enhancing the sustainability of these products.

Source: Cleaner Environmental Systems

DOI: 10.1016/j.cesys.2025.100274

Authors: Milton Mbugano, Juma Rajabu Selemani, Baraka Kichonge, Grite Nelson Mwaijengo, Mwema Felix Mwema

Institution: Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Subfield: Environmental Engineering

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Affordable and clean energy, Climate action, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,910