The goal of this deliverable is to compare the state-of-the art product with the new paper-based packaging materials for the substitution (D6.3 Part A) and the reusable alternatives introduced for demonstration (D6.3 Part B). Regarding the substitution approach, it was decided to use mature barrier products commercially available (short term strategy), due to the complexity of obtaining new paper-based materials with higher bio-based content with all the required properties and performances. For all products the most relevant life cycle stages are the pre-processing and manufactoring, while transportation has a very low value in all products and the contribution of end-of-life is negative, due to the benefit of recycling. The Single score impact values are lower in the Substituted product; the decrease in impact is not always due to a reduction in packaging weight but mainly due to the different types of raw materials used and the different production technologies. About reuse, the goal of the comparative LCA was to identify the break-even point, defined as the moment when the reuse system begins to generate net environmental benefits compared to single use solutions. The data about the return rate were taken from the projects outputs of WP2 and WP3 and a second analysis was carried out considering a higher return rate on the system. A deep analysis of the results was performed and it was achieved that the key factor normally is the balance between the weight of the reusable container and the number of times it is used. The variability of environmental performances of reusable systems depends on various interconnected factors across their lifecycle, mainly the product to packaging weight ratio and the material choice, but also the transport and cleaning processes. Social LCA studies and consideration were carried out and discussed in the Deliverables.
Bussini et al. (Wed,) studied this question.