How does plastic compare with alternative materials in the packaging sector? A systematic review of LCA studies.

ABSTRACT: In the recent years, packaging made of conventional plastics has been increasingly replaced by materials believed to be more sustainable. However, perceived sustainability must align with scientific assessments, such as life cycle assessments (LCAs). This review analysed 53 peer-reviewed studies published in the time range 2019-2023, aiming at understanding the state of the art in LCA about the environmental impacts of packaging by focusing on the comparison between plastics and alternative materials. The literature showed that consumer perceptions often differ from LCA findings and revealed that, frequently, conventional plastics are not the least environmentally friendly choice. Bioplastics typically show benefits only in the climate change and the fossil resource depletion impact catego

SUBMITTER: Dolci G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11874595 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature