Life Cycle Environmental Impact Analysis of HDPE Packaging Materials for Different Disposal Options

Abstract

The aim of this study is to evaluate the environmental impacts of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) packaging materials with the help of life cycle methodology. The production of HDPE plastics has two consecutive steps of granulate production and blow molding. When production of HDPE and transportation stages are considered, highest shares in global warming potential (GWP), photochemical ozone creation potential (POCP), acidification potential (AP), and eutrophication potential (EP) are due to granulate production. On the other hand, blow molding is the main contributor to ozone depletion potential (ODP) with regard to production and transportation stages. Incineration is observed to exert positive impacts on POCP, AP, and EP. Recycling has positive effect on all impact categories except EP. Besides, as landfilling elevates environmental impacts, it is not recommended as an end-of-life fate for HDPE packaging wastes.