According to a life cycle assessment commissioned by Mondi, Advantage StretchWrap, a paper for wrapping pallets, performs better in terms of climate impact than conventional plastic stretch film.
The Advantage StretchWrap paper developed by Mondi is a new, fully recyclable paper product. Originally used for wrapping mattress springs, the paper has now been Increased strength and stretchability of the paper and reduced basis weight, so that it can be wrapped around pallets. An industry first, Advantage StretchWrap is produced in the company's energy-efficient paper mills.
Mondi commissioned a life cycle assessment comparing the new product with conventional plastic stretch film. The complete study was carried out by an external consultancy, is ISO-compliant and includes an external critical review. Based on the assumption that Both materials recycled at the end of their life cycle the results showed that Mondi's paper-based solution for wrapping pallets has a lower climate impact as one of the LCA indicators.
Life cycle assessment covers all life cycle phases
The basis for comparison is the potential environmental impact resulting from the wrapping of a pallet. The life cycle assessment analysed 16 indicators, to understand possible trade-offs between the two materials. It covers all relevant life cycle phases, from raw material extraction and production through to application on the customer's pallet. In addition, the effects of disposal are assessed.
The life cycle assessment found that Advantage StretchWrap paper 62 per cent less greenhouse gas emissions compared to virgin plastic stretch film and 49 per cent less greenhouse gas emissions compared to plastic stretch film with 50 per cent recycled content. Advantage StretchWrap has a lower environmental impact than plastic in a number of impact categories, including climate change and use of fossil resources. The plastic stretch film scored better in some categories such as land use and freshwater eutrophication.
„Given the complexity of material selection, we consider independent critical reviews essential to ensure that LCAs provide objective and reliable results that focus on the environmental benefits of each material. At Mondi, we use these results as part of our decision-making process in line with our MAP2030-sustainability commitments.“ Karoline Angerer, Product Sustainability Manager Kraft Paper & Paper Bags, Mondi
On 9 November from 3 to 4 p.m. Mondi will be hosting a Webinar on the life cycle assessment.
Source: Mondi
