Life cycle assessment of expanded polystyrene shipping boxes at a public research institution: insights for infrastructure at the end of life ^*

Abstract Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a synthetic plastic used in various industrial and commercial applications. EPS popular for its unique physical properties, specifically insulating capabilities low density. These properties become problematic at the end of useful life as cannot be recycled with other conventional plastics. Though possible, recycling often practically or economically prohibitive material typically consigned to landfill after single use. This study investigates handling system several disposal alternatives using methodology cycle assessment. The results are applied evaluate environmental impacts economic tradeoffs program shipping boxes University Wisconsin-Madison. approach this pertains infrastructure sustainability through exploring challenges lack existing managing EPS. four scenarios under consideration (1) consignment sanitary landfill, (2) closed-loop reuse arrangement biotechnology company, (3) open-loop specialty recycler, (4) novel an on-campus lab. While was most environmentally desirable, indicate that only scenario generates net benefits while also being logistically feasible. Thus, contribute body knowledge related post-consumer management can inform decision-making comparable institutions generate large quantities waste.