A new study published in Nature Scientific Reports has delivered one of the most comprehensive analyses to date of the environmental sustainability of the semiconductor supply chain, offering insights into how its impact may evolve over the coming decades.
The research, led by Professor S.C. Lenny Koh of the CS Hub alongside Moein Shamoushak of Sheffield University Management School, was conducted in collaboration with Cardiff University researchers Josie Travers‑Nabialek and Sara‑Jayne Gillgrass. Titled “Geo-spatial prospective life cycle sustainability of InGaN and InGaP compound semiconductors,” the study focuses on key materials widely used in advanced electronics and optoelectronics.
The team analysed 80 global supply chain scenarios across 11 countries, modelling potential outcomes for the years 2030, 2040, and 2050. The goal was to understand how the environmental footprint of semiconductor production may shift over time, influenced by geographic location, technological evolution, and supply chain configuration.
Their findings provide a forward-looking view of how sustainability challenges in semiconductor manufacturing could develop, highlighting the importance of geographical decision-making and long-term planning in reducing environmental impact. By examining variations across different regions and future timelines, the study identifies critical factors that could influence emissions, resource use, and overall lifecycle sustainability.
The work is particularly relevant as demand for semiconductors continues to grow rapidly, driven by technologies such as renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, 5G communications, and quantum devices. With compound semiconductors playing a central role in these innovations, understanding their environmental implications is becoming increasingly important for both industry and policymakers.
Researchers say the study provides a valuable evidence base for improving sustainability strategies within the semiconductor sector, helping organisations make more informed decisions about sourcing, production, and technology development.
The publication also reflects the growing contribution of South Wales’ semiconductor research community to global challenges, combining expertise in materials science, supply chain analysis, and sustainability modelling.
The full paper is available here: https://lnkd.in/exGph_7c
