A comparative life cycle assessment of single‐use fibre drums versus reusable steel drums |
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| Authors: | Marco Raugei Pere Fullana‐i‐Palmer Rita Puig Alejo Torres |
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| Affiliation: | 1. Environmental Management Research Group (GiGa), Escola Superior de Comer? Internacional?–?Universitat Pompeu Fabra. Pg. Pujades 1, 08003 Barcelona, Spain;2. Grup Igualada Recerca (GIR), Escola Universitària d'Enginyeria d'Igualada?–?Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Pl. del Rei 1, 08700 Igualada, Spain;3. Environment, Health and Safety Department, Grupo Uriach, Polígono Industrial Riera de Caldes, Avinguda Camí Reial 51‐57, 08184 Palau Solita i Plegamans (Barcelona), Spain |
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| Abstract: | This paper deals with a comparative analysis of two different packaging and transport scenarios, which exemplifies the implications of choosing between single‐use and reusable packaging. In particular, transport of a batch of chemicals by means of disposable fibre drums versus reusable steel drums is investigated from a life cycle perspective, and the associated environmental impact in terms of global warming potential, acidification potential, gross energy requirement and solid waste generation is assessed. Results prove beyond reasonable doubt that even in the case of durable packaging containers requiring the use of comparatively energy‐intensive materials for their production, the reuse scenario is characterized by lower environmental impact indicators across the board, and as such is the most advisable and environmentally sound option. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. |
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| Keywords: | LCA packaging transport single‐use reuse |
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