Publications
Publications
- May 2023 (Revised June 2023)
- HBS Case Collection
Harvard University and Urban Mining Industries: Decarbonizing the Supply Chain
By: Shirley Lu and Robert S. Kaplan
Abstract
The case describes Harvard University’s consideration to decarbonize its supply chain by replacing cement with a low-carbon substitute called Pozzotive®. Developed and produced by Urban Mining Industries, Pozzotive® is a ground-glass material made with post-consumer recycled glass. A successful pilot project using Pozzotive® could jump start Harvard’s initiative to reduce embodied carbon emissions, but Harvard needs credible information about the magnitude and validity of potential carbon reductions. This case illustrates the flow of emissions along a simple supply chain, from Pozzotive® to concrete production to Harvard University’s construction project. Students explore the different methods of measuring carbon emissions, including the greenhouse gas protocol and the E-liability approach proposed by Professors Robert Kaplan and Karthik Ramanna. The case further features the opportunity to leverage blockchain technology to facilitate the flow of comparable and reliable emissions information.
Keywords
Carbon Emissions; Blockchain; Supply Chain; Green Technology; Climate Change; Environmental Sustainability
Citation
Lu, Shirley, and Robert S. Kaplan. "Harvard University and Urban Mining Industries: Decarbonizing the Supply Chain." Harvard Business School Case 123-076, May 2023. (Revised June 2023.)