Sankey charts are a type of flowchart that are used to visualize energy and resource flows in environmental contexts. They are commonly used to show the input of resources and waste streams into a system, as well as the output and fate of those resources. Sankey charts are a useful tool for understanding the flows of energy and resources within an ecosystem or industrial process, and for identifying opportunities for reducing waste and improving efficiency.
To create a Sankey chart, you will need to have flowdata that specifies the flow of resources and waste streams into and out of a system. This data can be obtained from a variety of sources, such as government reports, industry studies, or energy management systems. Once you have the flowdata, you can use a software tool to create a Sankey chart. There are several options available, including SankeyMaker, Sankey Editor, and Sankey Online.
Sankey charts typically include a set of input streams at the top of the chart, representing the sources of input into the system. The chart also includes a set of output streams at the bottom, representing the destinations of the output from the system. In between the input and output streams, the chart includes a set of process streams that represent the flow of resources and waste streams within the system.
The flow of resources and waste streams is depicted using arrows and labels. The arrows indicate the direction of the flow, with the input streams flowing into the system and the output streams flowing out of the system. The labels show the names of the streams, as well as any relevant information such as the volume or chemical composition of the streams.
Sankey charts can be used in a variety of environmental contexts, such as in the analysis of industrial processes, the assessment of energy efficiency, or the monitoring of waste streams. They can also be used to visualize the contributions of different industries to the overall flows of resources and waste in a given system.
In conclusion, Sankey charts are a useful tool for visualizing energy and resource flows in environmental contexts. By providing a clear and concise visual representation of the flows of resources and waste streams within a system, Sankey charts can help to identify opportunities for reducing waste and improving efficiency. Whether you are a researcher, policy-maker, or manager, understanding the flows of energy and resources is critical for making informed decisions about the environment.
SankeyMaster
SankeyMaster is your go-to tool for creating complex Sankey charts . Easily enter data and create Sankey charts that accurately reveal intricate data relationships.