# Supply Chain Management in Renewable Energy Projects from a Life Cycle Perspective: A Review
## 4 Discussion  
This study underscores the critical importance of integrating LCA and SSCM to achieve environmental sustainability and operational efficiency in RE systems. SSCM provides a strategic framework for optimizing logistics and resource flows, while LCA offers a standardized methodology for evaluating environmental impacts across all life cycle stages, from raw material extraction to end of life. The combined application of these frameworks enables a comprehensive understanding of environmental burdens and systemic inefficiencies throughout RE supply chains. The comparative analysis of the life cycle stages of RE technologies and SSCM phases (see Table 1) reveals operational overlaps and relevant distinctions regarding technological complexity and energy intensity. These insights are fundamental for developing strategies that minimize environmental impacts without compromising efficiency or cost-effectiveness. Although RE sources such as solar, wind, and biomass considerably reduce GHG emissions during operation, the extraction and manufacturing phases remain environmentally intensive. For example, in PV systems, up to 80% of life cycle emissions are associated with manufacturing processes, largely due to the energy demands of silicon refinement. The growing dependence on critical minerals such as neodymium and dysprosium adds further environmental and geopolitical challenges, given their limited global availability. These issues stress the need for circular economy approaches, advanced recycling technologies, and eco-design to reduce reliance on primary raw materials. From a strategic standpoint, digital tools such as AI, blockchain, and predictive analytics are emerging as essential enablers for improving traceability, forecasting, and process optimization across RE supply chains. Scenario-based energy models support long-term planning by assessing trade-offs between sustainability, economic viability, and technological deployment. Aligning SSCM with LCA metrics facilitates more balanced and evidence-based decision-making. Moreover, LCA is instrumental in supporting public policy development aimed at decarbonization. Its integration enhances green procurement, informs regulatory design, and strengthens mechanisms such as carbon pricing. Nevertheless, further work is needed to deepen the LCA-SSCM linkage, including broader data coverage, improved transparency, and the integration of socio-economic indicators into environmental evaluations. Noteworthy case studies reinforce this approach. In Germany, Fraunhofer ISE evaluated the LCA of European PV systems, identifying manufacturing as the most carbon-intensive stage and proposing recycling innovations to mitigate impacts. Similarly, research led by KTH in Sweden applied LCA and SSCM to small-scale hydropower blockchain projects, highlighting the role of policy in enhancing material recovery and promoting circularity within RE value chains [211, 212]. These examples demonstrate the practical feasibility of integrating LCA and SSCM to strengthen the sustainability and resilience of RE systems. While digital technologies such as AI, blockchain, and predictive analytics enhance traceability and efficiency in SSCM, their deployment also requires significant energy consumption, particularly through data centers and infrastructure. To align with decarbonization goals, it is essential to adopt energy-efficient algorithms and green IT practices. A balanced integration of digital innovation and environmental performance ensures that digitalization supports not undermines the sustainability of RE systems. Finally, regional case studies and interdisciplinary collaboration will be essential.