Life cycle assessment study on packaging products in Finland
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School of Business |
Master's thesis
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Authors
Date
2024
Department
Major/Subject
Mcode
Degree programme
Information and Service Management (ISM)
Language
en
Pages
60 + 13
Series
Abstract
This thesis delves into the intricate life cycle of packaging products in Finland, focusing on environmental impacts associated with materials like corrugated cardboard and plastic. Collaborative efforts between Mercamer Oy, a leading packaging retailer, and Pickler, a specialized life cycle assessment expert, aim to quantify and qualify packaging products' carbon footprint, identifying areas for improvement and potential hotspots within their life cycles. Motivated by the surge in e-commerce and growing sustainability awareness, the study aims to build a transparent, up to date and unified single method to calculate CO2 values of packaging products. A holistic approach considering the entire life cycle of packaging materials is essential. Through meticulous methodology involving data collection, calculation, and analysis the study successfully develops a unified model for calculating carbon footprints, ensuring traceability and credibility of results. The study not only benefits Mercamer Oy and its customers but also contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable packaging in the Finnish market. Detailed analysis of two packaging products - plastic-based hand-stressed film and cardboard-based corrugated box - reveals varying carbon footprints due to material choices, production processes, and transportation methods. The role of end-of-life considerations and SimaPro software in translating data into comprehensible metrics is underscored. Managerial implications include empowering companies like Mercamer Oy to make informed decisions regarding material choices, production processes, and transportation methods, thereby driving demand for eco-friendly products and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship. From a scientific perspective, this study contributes to the growing body of research on sustainable packaging and life cycle assessments, paving the way for future endeavors. While limitations exist, this thesis lays the foundation for ongoing efforts to promote environmental stewardship and innovation within the packaging industry, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future.Description
Thesis advisor
Kuula, MarkkuKeywords
packaging, CO2, supply chain, life cycle