Unlocking the Sustainability Benefits: The Importance of LCA, LCC and SLCA Analysis in Recycling Multi-Layer Packaging Waste
Multi-layer packaging is a type of plastic packaging that is used extensively in various industries. It is notoriously difficult to recycle due to the multiple layers of different materials that make up the packaging. However, advancements in recycling technology have made it possible to recycle multi-layer packaging waste, albeit with some limitations. One of the main limitations of recycling multi-layer packaging waste is the quality of the recycled plastic materials that are produced. This is the part where MERLIN project consortium comes in. Sorting technology providers, recyclers, research centers, social innovation experts and end users aims at designing innovative solutions for all the processes required to increase the quality and rate of recycled plastic materials coming from multi-layer packaging waste.
The quality and rating of recycled plastic materials from multi-layer packaging waste are crucial for several reasons. Firstly, high-quality recycled plastic materials can be used to produce new plastic products that are of the same quality as those made from virgin plastic. This reduces the need to produce new plastic products from virgin materials, which saves energy and resources. It also reduces the environmental impact of plastic waste, as it reduces the amount of plastic that ends up in landfills and oceans.
Secondly, it can help to promote the circular economy. The circular economy is a system that aims to keep materials in use for as long as possible and minimize waste. By increasing the quality and rating of recycled plastic materials from multi-layer packaging waste, we can create a closed-loop system where materials are reused rather than discarded after use. This helps to reduce waste and conserve natural resources by maximizing the use of materials.
It can also help to create a market for recycled plastic products. A market for recycled plastic products can help to stimulate the recycling industry and promote sustainable practices. By creating a demand for recycled plastic products, we can encourage more companies to invest in recycling technology and infrastructure. This, in turn, can create jobs and support economic growth while promoting sustainability.
By increasing the quality and rating of recycled plastic materials from multi-layer packaging waste we can help to reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste. Plastic waste is a significant environmental issue that has severe consequences for wildlife, ecosystems, and human health.
Lastly, by providing new solutions and new ways of sorting, delaminating and recycling can help to promote sustainability in the long term. Sustainability is a crucial aspect of environmental stewardship, and recycling plays a significant role in promoting sustainability. This, in turn, helps to promote a sustainable future for our planet.
LCA, LCC and SLCA analysis helps to assess the environmental, economic and social impact of a product throughout its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to disposal following all the important steps:
- Identify the project goals and objectives
- Defining the scope of the study and the boundaries of the study
- Conduct a LCI – Life Cycle Inventory – collecting data in the energy, material inputs, manufacturing process, transportation, end-of-life options…
- Conduct a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) – the LCA involves analysing the environmental impacts associated with the production, use, and disposal of the multi-layer packaging recycling waste. This may include calculating the carbon footprint, and other environmental impact indicators.
- Conduct Life Cycle Costing (LCC). – the LCC involves analysing the cost associated with the production, use and disposal of the multi-layer packaging recycling waste. This may include calculating the cost of raw materials, labor, transportation, and end-of-life disposal.
- Conduct Social Life Cycele Assessment (SLCA) – the SLCA involves analysing the social impact associated with the production, use, and disposal of the multi-layer packaging recycling waste .This may include assessing the impacts on workers, communities, and other stakeholders.
- Analyse the results
- Develop solutions
- Implement and monitor
By following this plan and structure, Particula Group is conducting a comprehensive life cycle analysis of the project aimed at improving the quality and rating of multi-layer packaging recycling waste through innovative technology solutions. This analysis will help to identify areas for improvement and develop sustainable solutions that can help to reduce environmental impacts, costs, and social impacts associated with the production, use and disposal of the packaging waste.
In conclusion, MERLIN project will offer new solutions and high performance to move towards „green“ waste management system. High-quality recycled plastic materials can be used to produce new plastic products that are of the same quality as those made from virgin plastic. This reduces the need to produce new plastic products from virgin materials, which saves energy and resources. It also helps to promote the circular economy, create a market for recycled plastic products, and reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste.