Baoshan-based tech firm partners with ecoinvent to enhance nation's LCA database

Shanghai HiQ Smart Data Co Ltd, based in Baoshan district of Shanghai, has partnered with Ecoinvent, a globally recognized provider of life cycle assessment (LCA) databases. This exclusive collaboration aims to develop a private cloud service for China's LCA database, enabling two-way connectivity between local Chinese data and international database systems.

An overview of the HQLCD ecosystem, a leading Chinese LCA database. [Photo/Shanghai Baoshan Media Center]

Unlike simple data importation, this partnership aims to integrate China's LCA data into the global framework, enabling the true carbon footprint of Chinese manufacturing to be recognized worldwide. HiQ Smart Data will manage the licensing, distribution, and support of the Ecoinvent database within China, providing local enterprises with options for RMB payment, Chinese-language services, and streamlined compliance pathways.

Historically, carbon footprint assessments have relied on global average data, which does not accurately reflect the unique characteristics of Chinese industries. Regional differences in energy structure and production processes significantly impact data accuracy. This partnership addresses this issue by using local Chinese data to accurately represent local manufacturing practices while utilizing international data to uphold integrity across the global supply chain.

Aerial view of a contemporary park in Baoshan district. [Photo/Shanghai Baoshan Media Center]

HiQ Smart Data has developed 85,000 process-level datasets that cover 31 provinces and eight major industries in China, establishing itself as a leader in the LCA field. The collaboration with Ecoinvent marks a significant milestone in promoting regional green development, positioning China as an active participant with independent data capabilities in the global carbon accounting system. This initiative will enhance the competitiveness of Chinese enterprises in the global green supply chain, leveraging data as a critical link to global low-carbon resources.