Life-cycle assessment: its applications and limitations in plastic waste management

Presentation by Tu Xayachak (RMIT University)

Abstract

Life-cycle assessment (LCA), as an environmental analysis tool, allows us to quantitatively evaluate the holistic impacts of plastic materials throughout all stages of their life cycle, from material extraction to manufacturing to disposal/recycling. Drawing inspiration from our peer-reviewed publications, this presentation explores how LCA can be used to support innovative waste management solutions and promote data-driven decision-making in the context of “Ending Plastic Waste” mission and circular economy. Through detailed LCA studies, our research not only provides actionable insights for stakeholders and policymakers, but also highlights the limitations of LCA methodologies being used in the plastic sector and our recommendations for enhanced analyses and transparency.