Environmental impacts of wooden, plastic, and wood-polymer composite pallet: a life cycle assessment approach

Abstract Purpose Waste recycling is one of the essential tools for European Union’s transition towards a circular economy. One possibilities wood and plastic waste to utilise it produce composite product. This study analyses environmental impacts producing pallets made from construction demolition activities in Finland. It also compares these with conventional wooden virgin materials. Methods Two different life cycle assessment methods were used: attributional consequential assessment. In both studies, 1000 trips considered as functional unit. Furthermore, end-of-life allocation formula such 0:100 credit system had been used this study. sensitivity analysis normalisation calculation determine best performing pallet. Result discussion cradle-to-grave assessment, wood-polymer lowest impact abiotic depletion potential (fossil), acidification potential, eutrophication global warming (including biogenic carbon), carbon) indirect land-use change, ozone potential. contrast, showed on (excluding carbon). all categories. assessments, pallet maximum impact. The that can be better choice over Conclusions overall results depends methodological approach LCA. However, concluded and, most cases, will use industry relevant stakeholders.