LCA Case Studies and Comparisons

LCA Case Studies and Comparisons

Plastic Bags vs Paper Bags vs Cotton Tote Bags

• Paper bags: Higher energy to produce, more water pollution, heavier transport emissions, but biodegradable
• Plastic bags: Lower production energy but persist for centuries, contribute to marine pollution
• Cotton tote bags: Very high production impact, must be used 130+ times to offset plastic bag impact
• Conclusion: Context matters - consider reuse potential and disposal methods

Electric vs Petrol Cars

• Electric cars: Higher manufacturing impact (battery production), but lower use phase emissions
• Petrol cars: Lower manufacturing impact, but much higher lifetime emissions from fuel
• Key factor: Electricity source (renewable vs fossil fuel grid)
• Break-even point: ~30,000-50,000 miles depending on electricity source

Smartphone LCA

• Manufacturing stage: 85% of total environmental impact
• Rare earth mining: Major biodiversity and water pollution impacts
• Use phase: Relatively low impact (charging energy)
• E-waste: Growing problem with toxic materials and low recycling rates