Integrated approach of waste analysis and life cycle assessment for the management of non-recyclable plastics in recycling shops

Abstract

The unbound usage of plastic products in modern society has brought convenience and poses significant environmental challenges. Recycling Shops (RS) are vital in mitigating plastic waste problems in urban waste management. During the recycling process, RS generates non-recyclable plastics that demand scientific solutions for its management. This study conducted material flow analysis (MFA) to estimate the yearly recycled plastic waste in the RSs of Khulna City. Subsequently, a life cycle assessment (LCA) was performed to explore the suitable management facilities for non-recyclable plastics. The results highlighted the contribution of the informal plastic recycling sector to the city's waste management system by recycling 6324 tons of plastic waste per year. Polypropylene (PP) and Polyethylene (PE) were the most abundant polymers among the recycling plastics in RS. The LCA results revealed that among the five considered cases, Open Burning showed the maximum impact on the environment while Sanitary Landfill exhibited the lowest environmental impact across eighteen impact categories. The sanitary landfilling of non-recyclable plastics was identified as an environmentally friendly approach for managing non-recyclable plastics. This study addressed the urgency for appropriately managing non-recyclable plastics to protect the human and environment from plastic pollution in Bangladesh including recommendations for improving current practices.