| Popis: |
This paper presents important methodical aspects in conjunction with the ongoing development of a novel multi-level-model in support of lifecycle environmental assessments of telecommunication networks. The new approach is, to some extent, emulating the OSI-layer model (Open Systems Interconnection), starting at the bottom with the main physical components, followed by product configurations, network architecture and control. On the top layer, the model scales through application and use case scenarios. This complex inventory model furthermore distinguishes between constructive (hardware-defined) elements on the one hand and operational (software-defined) elements on the other. By combining technical data as fixed values with application data as variable values, it is now possible to analyze the causal interaction between different technology generations, network configurations, and utilization intensity. It will allow identifying the best starting point for eco-design and improvement measures. Due to fact that the new methodology is not limited to energy consumption only, it supports a holistic understanding of the environmental impact of telecommunication networks. |
