Cleaner Engineering and Technology (Aug 2023)
Life cycle assessment and policy for the improvement of net-zero emissions in China
Abstract
Bio-based plastics are gaining popularity in the industry to lessen the negative effects of plastic pollution on terrestrial and aquatic environments. Environmentally acceptable alternatives to plastics made from fossil fuels must be adopted worldwide if the world wants to achieve net-zero emissions. The current research examines environmental emissions by contrasting petroleum-based with bio-based plastics. A road map is formulated based on environmental impacts for China to reach its net-zero emissions objectives by 2050. Together with technologies, life cycle assessment enables the measurement and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions through creating policies and developing strategies. It is possible to achieve net-zero emissions using current production, recycling, and waste management technologies. But rapid investment and policy implementation across numerous social sectors are required. In 2020, China generated 38.4 million tons (Mt) of plastic waste in 2020, and it will reach approximately 56.56 Mt in 2050. Its plastic manufacturing emits 2.78 Mt of CO2 and will reach 4.10 Mt in 2050. Policy implementation will restrict CO2 from increasing further, i.e., by 1.7 Mt by 2050. With the current recycling rate, policy implications or roadmap, we can control China's plastic pollution by 2043.
