Life Cycle Assessment-based Sustainability Evaluation and Application Optimization of Bio-based Packaging Materials

LIU Huwei; ZHOU Li; YANG Jianglong; LIANG Kaibo

doi:10.19554/j.cnki.1001-3563.2025.19.031

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Packaging Engineering ›› 2025, Vol. 46 ›› Issue (19) : 291-297. DOI: 10.19554/j.cnki.1001-3563.2025.19.031

Green Packaging and Circular Economy

Life Cycle Assessment-based Sustainability Evaluation and Application Optimization of Bio-based Packaging Materials

LIU Huwei¹, ZHOU Li¹, YANG Jianglong², LIANG Kaibo²

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Abstract

The work aims to establish a life cycle assessment model for bio-based packaging materials to evaluate their sustainability and propose application optimization strategies, so as to address the high environmental burden and strong resource dependence of traditional polyolefin-based packaging materials. Based on ISO 14040/14044 standards, a comprehensive LCA evaluation framework covering raw material acquisition, production, use, and end-of-life treatment was established. Key indicators including carbon footprint, water footprint, and land use were selected to quantitatively assess typical bio-based packaging materials such as PLA, PHA, starch-based, and cellulose-based materials, with comparative analysis against traditional PE and PP materials. PLA showed 35% reduction in carbon emissions compared with PE throughout its life cycle. PHA could completely degrade in a marine environment within 6-12 months. Starch-based materials could completely degrade within 90 days under composting conditions but had poor mechanical properties. The production stage was the major source of environmental impact, accounting for 60%-75% of total impact. In conclusion, bio-based packaging materials demonstrate significant advantages in environmental friendliness. Through technological innovation, industrial collaboration, and policy guidance, large-scale application can be achieved, providing support for the green transformation of the packaging industry.

Key words

bio-based packaging materials / life cycle assessment / sustainability / carbon footprint / circular economy

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LIU Huwei, ZHOU Li, YANG Jianglong, LIANG Kaibo. Life Cycle Assessment-based Sustainability Evaluation and Application Optimization of Bio-based Packaging Materials[J]. Packaging Engineering. 2025, 46(19): 291-297 https://doi.org/10.19554/j.cnki.1001-3563.2025.19.031

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