Abstract:
1. Introduction
This study evaluates the life cycle impacts of using virgin polypropylene
(PP) granules versus recycled PP from saline bottle crush in the production
of plastic bottle caps. The research aims to offer insights into the
environmental impacts of PP plastic production, with broader implications
for manufacturing industries, academic research, and life cycle assessment
(LCA) studies. In response to the growing need for sustainable
manufacturing and repurposing of medical plastic waste, this investigation
provides a comparative analysis that contributes to medical plastic waste
management solutions.
2. Research Methodology
Data collection was conducted at S.M.L Produces (Pvt) Ltd with
supplementary insights drawn from existing literature on the
environmental impacts of PP production. This study employs a cradle-to-
gate LCA, comparing the environmental impacts of virgin PP granules and
recycled PP from saline bottles. It uses the ReCiPe 2016 method in SimaPro
software to assess eighteen environmental impact categories across the
plastic bottle cap production cycle, from raw material extraction to
manufacturing.
3. Findings and Discussion
The findings reveal that using recycled PP offers both environmental and
economic advantages. When recycled PP was used, a notable reduction of
up to 45% in human carcinogenic impacts was observed making it a
compelling choice for reducing environmental harm. Results reinforce the
viability of incorporating recycled materials in plastic manufacturing,
particularly for managing medical plastic waste more sustainably.
4. Conclusion and Implications
By repurposing saline bottle waste, manufacturers can substantially
decrease environmental impacts while addressing medical plastic waste
management challenges. Future research will continue to explore
sustainable solutions in medical waste handling and strategies to lower the
environmental footprint of plastic production.
