Paper vs leaf: Carbon footprint of single-use plates made from renewable materials

Plastic pollution of the natural environment world-wide is ubiquitous. More than 80% marine litter made plastics, 70% which originates from disposable items, so plastic disposables need to be replaced with renewable materials. However, it important investigate environmental impact alternatives through their life cycle, in order support sustainable consumption and production. In this study, carbon footprint plates two different materials (paper, tree leaves) were analysed using cycle assessment. The leaf plate was produced India paper Finland, but both used disposed Sweden. results showed that had higher footprint, due long-distance transport use fossil fuel-based electricity for Scenario analysis indicated emissions associated lower when replacing air freight sea economies scale expanded For plate, processing stage shown contribute most emissions. These could lowered by applying a biodegradable coating. comparison benefit being biodegradable, not enough compete consider less environmentally damaging alternative. increase sustainability food supply chain, will just improve material single plates, especially since idea seen as sustainable, improved have potential offset anticipated growth service sector where items are widely used.