Integrated carbon responsibility allocation in the electric vehicle battery supply chain: a comprehensive approach to emission reduction

This study investigates the allocation of carbon responsibility within the entire supply chain, utilizing a comprehensive traceability framework. Using the electric vehicle battery industry as a case study, it examines the transfer and allocation of carbon responsibilities across upstream raw material production, the power battery industry, downstream industries, and end-users, resulting in a more equitable distribution of carbon responsibility. The electric vehicle battery industry bears only 6.6%-18.9% of its original carbon responsibility, with the remainder shared among related industries and consumers. Industries such as the computer, communication, and other electronic equipment manufacturing industry, the electrical machinery and equipment manufacturing industry (except the electric vehicle battery industry), the automobile product manufacturing industry, and the transport and storage industry bear a heavy carbon responsibility. Notably, the carbon responsibility of end-use categories such as exports and urban consumption is significantly higher, highlighting the substantial role of final consumers. The analysis demonstrates that a collaborative allocation strategy, integrating market-driven mechanisms, technological innovation, and policy support, can effectively drive emission reductions across the entire supply chain. This approach promotes equitable carbon reduction targets and fosters global cooperation for sustainable development.