10,500 results
Search Results
2. Expert Survey on the Impact of Cardboard and Paper Recycling Processes, Fiber-Based Composites/Laminates and Regulations, and Their Significance for the Circular Economy and the Sustainability of the German Paper Industry.
- Author
-
Belle, Jürgen, Hirtz, Daniela, and Sängerlaub, Sven
- Abstract
The European Community is striving for a sustainable society as suggested by the UN's 2015 sustainability goals. The circular economy in the paper and packaging industry is of particular importance here because it consumes many resources. The paper industry in Germany with a fiber recycling rate of 85% in 2022 is already a pioneer and role model for other industries. All materials should be recyclable. Fiber-based composites/laminates are currently becoming increasingly important. Essential questions are: which collection systems and recycling paths should be used for fiber-based composites/laminates, and where are there currently challenges with recycling? To answer these questions, 58 questionnaires answered by German experts and practitioners in the German paper industry were evaluated. Wet-strength papers, adhesives, plastic coatings and wax dispersions were perceived as a problem by 70% of all respondents, and packaging residues by almost 40%. Additionally, 90% stated that the composition of paper for recycling changes regularly due to legislation, trends and innovations, while 60% attributed this to recent changes in legislation. For at least 80%, virgin fibers from packaging are valuable for paper recycling, but only 15% of respondents stated that virgin fibers compensate for the disadvantages of rejects. Almost 90% expected challenges with fiber-based composites/laminates in the existing paper for recycling processes. Overall, the collection and recycling of fiber-based composites/laminates in conventional paper for recycling collection and the recycling system is not desirable. An integrated collection, sorting and recycling system should be considered, especially because a further increase in fiber-based composites is to be expected. In the end, the design for recycling and following recycling guidelines are the key to the recycling industry in the future. Good recyclability of fiber-based composites/laminates would improve their acceptance by paper recyclers. Their virgin fibers are particularly valuable. The results of our study are relevant to the recycling and fiber industry, standard-setting bodies, regulatory authorities and research. The limitation of this study is that experts from the paper industry were interviewed, but the recyclability of the fiber materials was not analyzed by measurement, and the machine technology of the interviewees could not be examined and evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
3. Erythrosine–Dialdehyde Cellulose Nanocrystal Coatings for Antibacterial Paper Packaging.
- Author
-
Shi, Shih-Chen, Ouyang, Sing-Wei, and Rahmadiawan, Dieter
- Subjects
BIODEGRADABLE plastics ,CELLULOSE ,KRAFT paper ,PLASTICS ,PLASTICS in packaging ,POLYETHYLENE - Abstract
Though paper is an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic as a packaging material, it lacks antibacterial properties, and some papers have a low resistance to oil or water. In this study, a multifunctional paper-coating material was developed to reduce the use of plastic packaging and enhance paper performance. Natural cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) with excellent properties were used as the base material for the coating. The CNCs were functionalized into dialdehyde CNCs (DACNCs) through periodate oxidation. The DACNCs were subsequently complexed using erythrosine as a photosensitizer to form an erythrosine–CNC composite (Ery-DACNCs) with photodynamic inactivation. The Ery-DACNCs achieved inactivations above 90% after 30 min of green light irradiation and above 85% after 60 min of white light irradiation (to simulate real-world lighting conditions), indicating photodynamic inactivation effects. The optimal parameters for a layer-by-layer dip coating of kraft paper with Ery-DACNCs were 4.5-wt% Ery-DACNCs and 15 coating layers. Compared to non-coated kraft paper and polyethylene-coated paper, the Ery-DACNC-coated paper exhibited enhanced mechanical properties (an increase of 28% in bursting strength). More than 90% of the bacteria were inactivated after 40 min of green light irradiation, and more than 80% were inactivated after 60 min of white light irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
4. Paper-Mill Wastes for Bioethanol Production in Relation to Circular Economy Concepts: A Review.
- Author
-
Or-Chen, Dafna, Gerchman, Yoram, Mamane, Hadas, and Peretz, Roi
- Subjects
CIRCULAR economy ,ETHANOL as fuel ,SLUDGE management ,FOSSIL fuels ,PAPER pulp ,WASTE management - Abstract
This review explores circular economy principles in regard to ethanol production from paper-mill sludge. Environmental sustainability and renewability over fossil fuels make second generation ethanol an attractive energy source in a rapidly growing population and consumption world. Paper sludge (PS), a by-product of the pulp and paper (P&P) industry, can no longer be recycled for paper production and is mainly disposed of in landfills. Therefore, it poses a major environmental challenge. However, it has shown potential as a valuable raw material for ethanol production, along with other pulp and paper products, due to its abundant availability and high cellulosic content. This waste-to-energy (WtE) technology for ethanol production is proposed as an alternative, aligning with circular economy concepts to maximize resource efficiency and minimize waste. This review underlines the circular economy aspects of bioethanol production within paper mill sludge management systems. Circular economy principles applied to ethanol production from PS offer a promising avenue for sustainable biofuel development that not only addresses waste management challenges but also enhances the overall environmental performance of biofuel production. Furthermore, economic benefits are described, highlighting the potential for job creation and community development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
5. Life cycle assessment of plastic and paper carrying bags in the Philippines
- Author
-
Aristotle T. Ubando, Jeremias A. Gonzaga, Ivan Henderson V. Gue, and Jose Bienvenido Manuel Biona
- Subjects
Waste management ,Shopping bags ,Circular economy ,Southeast asia ,Sustainable consumption and production ,Single-use ,Environmental effects of industries and plants ,TD194-195 - Abstract
Plastic waste mismanagement is a pertinent environmental concern among developing countries. The Philippines has a significant plastic waste concern as the country is among the top emitters of plastic wastes to the ocean. To manage plastic wastes, the government enacted policies. resulting to paper carrying bags becoming a prominent alternative. Switching from one carrying bag to another, however, requires clear assessment on the environmental implications as environmental trade-offs can occur. To provide the needed clarity, this study assessed the environmental implications of plastic and paper carrying bags through a life cycle assessment (LCA) approach. This study developed a model with the novelty of a) supply chain integration, b) augmented Environmental Design of Industrial Products (EDIP) impact assessment, and c) inventory categorization. From the augmented EDIP assessment, paper carrying bags had a single score impact of 0.73 whereas plastic carrying bags had a single score of 0.63. In terms of geographic emissions, this work revealed that paper carrying bags emit 50.28% of its emissions outside the country whereas plastic carrying bag emit 34.72%. Policy recommendations derived from the findings are provided in this paper. Recommendations include carbon capture and storage, green procurement, circular management, and waste management system improvement. Policy makers may infer from the recommendations in managing environmental issues from the use of carrying bags.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
6. Circular economy of shopping bags in emerging markets: A demographic comparative analysis of propensity to reuse plastic bags versus cotton bags and paper bags
- Author
-
Paul Mukucha, Divaries Cosmas Jaravaza, and Sarah Nyengerai
- Subjects
circular economy ,plastic paper bags ,reuse ,low income shoppers ,high income shoppers ,cotton bags ,Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General) ,TA1-2040 - Abstract
AbstractThis study seeks to profile the shoppers’ propensity to reuse shopping bags and the type of shopping bags they reuse on the basis of demographics. The study used an observation method to record the consumers’ shopping habits and a short questionnaire to record the participants’ demographics. A binary regression analysis and a multinomial regression analysis were used to analyse data. The results indicated that the mature aged, women, and low income shoppers were more likely to practice reuse of plastic shopping bags than their respective counterparts. There were no statistically significant differences in the likelihood of young aged shoppers compared to mature aged shoppers and low income shoppers compared to high income shoppers using cotton bags than plastic bags. There were also no statistically significant differences in the likelihood of young aged shoppers compared to mature aged shoppers and male shoppers compared to female shoppers using paper bags than plastic bags. However, the results indicated a statically significant result in how males compared to females differed in their using of cotton bags than plastic bags and a statistically significant result in how low income shoppers compared to high income shoppers differed in their use of paper bags than plastic bags.
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
7. Recycling of paper, cardboard and its PFAS in Norway
- Author
-
Håkon A. Langberg, Hans Peter H. Arp, Gabriela Castro, Alexandros G. Asimakopoulos, and Heidi Knutsen
- Subjects
Recycling ,Non-intentionally added substances ,Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) ,Circular economy ,Waste management ,Hazardous substances and their disposal ,TD1020-1066 - Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been used in paper products since the 1960s. PFAS emissions during the life cycle of these products have been substantial sources of these substances to the environment. Here, a total of 37 PFAS were analysed in 13 paper products sampled in 2021, for which some were made of virgin paper and others recycled paper, including food contact materials (FCM), packaging, and a notebook. In addition, different fractions of the recycling process of corrugated paper and board were sampled at a Norwegian cardboard recycling plant and analysed for the same PFAS, to get an overview of PFAS in the recycling stream of these materials in Norway. PFAS were found in recycled paper and board, indicating PFAS can be a non-intentionally added substance (NIAS) in recycled paper products. Sum of targeted PFAS detected in paper products (including products made of virgin and recycled materials) ranged between 0.4 and 971 µg kg−1, dominated by SAmPAP diester and 6:2 FTS (0–62% and 0–98%, respectively). The sum of targeted PFAS in returned corrugated paper and board in Norway is at least 32 kg per year (6 mg per capita per year). Recycling is important to ensure sustainability. As part of the broad PFAS restriction in Europe, PFAS are to be restricted in paper and board materials. Thus, lower levels of PFAS entering the recycling stream are expected in the future. Monitoring is necessary to assess reductions of PFAS in the paper waste stream due to PFAS regulations in Europe.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
8. Paper Bags vis-à-vis LDPE Bags: Gleanings from Peer-reviewed E-LCA Publications.
- Author
-
Lidbrand, Isabell, Venkatesh, G., and Lestelius, Magnus
- Subjects
PAPER bags ,LOW density polyethylene ,CIRCULAR economy ,SOCIOECONOMIC factors ,ENERGY consumption ,PLASTIC marine debris - Abstract
Copyright of Studia Ecologiae et Bioethicae is the property of Uniwerystet Kardynala Stefana Wyznskiege w Warzawie and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
9. Paper-Mill Wastes for Bioethanol Production in Relation to Circular Economy Concepts: A Review
- Author
-
Dafna Or-Chen, Yoram Gerchman, Hadas Mamane, and Roi Peretz
- Subjects
paper-mill wastes ,bioethanol ,waste management ,waste-to-energy ,circular economy ,Technology ,Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General) ,TA1-2040 ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Physics ,QC1-999 ,Chemistry ,QD1-999 - Abstract
This review explores circular economy principles in regard to ethanol production from paper-mill sludge. Environmental sustainability and renewability over fossil fuels make second generation ethanol an attractive energy source in a rapidly growing population and consumption world. Paper sludge (PS), a by-product of the pulp and paper (P&P) industry, can no longer be recycled for paper production and is mainly disposed of in landfills. Therefore, it poses a major environmental challenge. However, it has shown potential as a valuable raw material for ethanol production, along with other pulp and paper products, due to its abundant availability and high cellulosic content. This waste-to-energy (WtE) technology for ethanol production is proposed as an alternative, aligning with circular economy concepts to maximize resource efficiency and minimize waste. This review underlines the circular economy aspects of bioethanol production within paper mill sludge management systems. Circular economy principles applied to ethanol production from PS offer a promising avenue for sustainable biofuel development that not only addresses waste management challenges but also enhances the overall environmental performance of biofuel production. Furthermore, economic benefits are described, highlighting the potential for job creation and community development.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
10. Optimizing paper sludge content and particle size to enhance particleboard properties.
- Author
-
Mehrvan, Kian, Jonoobi, Mehdi, Ashori, Alireza, and Ahmadi, Peyman
- Subjects
- *
CIRCULAR economy , *FLEXURAL strength , *WASTE management , *PRINCIPAL components analysis , *PARTICLE board - Abstract
The pulp and paper industry generates vast quantities of paper sludge, posing significant environmental challenges due to its disposal in landfills or incineration. This study explores the potential of valorizing paper sludge by incorporating it into particleboard production. It aims to optimize sludge content and particle size to enhance board properties—a novel approach to waste management in the wood composites industry. Through systematic variation of sludge content (0–25%) and particle size (< 0.5 to > 2 mm), we assessed the mechanical and physical properties such as internal bond strength (IB), modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), water absorption (WA), and thickness swelling (TS). The findings indicate that incorporating paper sludge at moderate levels (5–15%) with optimized particle sizes (< 1 mm) significantly improves the mechanical properties of the particleboard, including increased IB, MOR, and MOE while reducing WA and TS. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) further supported these results, revealing that higher-density boards with enhanced mechanical properties absorb less water, highlighting the interrelationship between structural integrity and moisture resistance. The PCA also identified thickness swelling as an independent factor, suggesting that while mechanical properties can be optimized, additional strategies are needed to control swelling. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that up to 15% paper sludge can be effectively used in particleboard production without compromising quality, provided particle size is carefully controlled. This approach not only offers a sustainable solution for managing paper sludge but also contributes to the development of eco-friendly composite materials, aligning with circular economy principles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
11. Paper Bags vis-à-vis LDPE Bags: Gleanings from Peer-reviewed E-LCA Publications
- Author
-
Isabell Lidbrand, Govindarajan Venkatesh, and Magnus Lestelius
- Subjects
circular economy ,E-LCA ,global warming potential ,LDPE ,paper bags ,plastic bags ,Environmental sciences ,GE1-350 ,Ecology ,QH540-549.5 ,Philosophy (General) ,B1-5802 - Abstract
Fossil-plastics or paper? Or for that matter, bio-plastics and paper? This is a well-entrenched question in academic research, industrial, social and policy-making circles. As environmental life-cycle analyses (or more appropriately, sustainability analyses) show time and again, no single product or process or mode of operation is a ‘total villain’. There are goods and bads, and at times, more of the one than the other. This paper, which is based on a course-report written by the first author at Karlstad University (Sweden), restricts itself to a review of publications which have opted to compare paper bags with low density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic bags, on the basis of their environmental impacts. Environmental impact categories include the global warming potential, energy demand, fossil fuel depletion, water usage, acidification, eutrophication, and a range of toxicities – human, terrestrial, freshwater-aquatic and marine-aquatic. The articles were obtained through Google Scholar, read and reviewed to glean the results presented therein. The ‘What’, ‘How’ and ‘Where’, so to say were studied carefully to understand the reasons behind any differences or similarities detected. On the basis of this focused review, even though no new knowledge is being added, the common belief that the paper bag is environmentally superior to the LDPE alternative is further consolidated. However, if one focuses on water usage and would assign a high weightage to that environmental impact, LDPE perhaps may score a few ‘brownie points’ over paper. One must also not forget that plastics (LDPE in this instance) can be recycled without significant deterioration in its functional properties. In a circular economy (the bioeconomy part of which gradually will expand over time), while introducing more and more bio-based products into the technosphere by way of trans-materialization is recommended, plastics will still continue to exist – albeit in much smaller amounts – and it would be perfectly fine if the degree of recycling is augmented significantly. Speaking of a holistic sustainability analysis, the socio-economic aspects of a choice between LDPE and paper bags must also be factored in, and studied. Much-desired change happens when the top-down meets the bottom-up somewhere midway.
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
12. Biotechnological Basis of the Pulp and Paper Industry Circular Economic System.
- Author
-
Kvasha, Nadezhda, Bolotnikova, Olga, and Malevskaia-Malevich, Ekaterina
- Subjects
PAPER industry ,PAPER recycling ,ECONOMIC systems ,WASTE paper ,SCIENTIFIC method ,HETERODOX economics ,BIOECONOMICS - Abstract
To ensure development sustainability, the linear economic approach is being transformed into a cyclical model. For the pulp and paper industry (PPI), which occupies a significant place in the Russian economy, the shift of circular principles to the field of bioeconomics is becoming more important. This requires the development of basic biotechnological approaches implemented in closed cycles (biorefining). The aim of this study was to develop the biotechnological foundations of the circular economic system of the pulp and paper industry. To achieve the goal, the factors for the implementation of the circular mechanism in the pulp and paper industry were established. The composition of pulp and paper waste was systematized, taking into account the places of their occurrence; the directions and forms of the biorefining of pulp and paper secondary renewable resources were determined; and the principal possibility of obtaining bioethanol, based on the whole complex of sugars from cellulose production wastes, is shown. A wide range of general scientific methods was involved (analysis, synthesis, classification, modeling, etc.). Statistical methods were used to process experimental results in the field of pulp and paper waste bioconversion. The biotechnologies involved included methods of destruction, detoxification, and conversion of useful resources into secondary raw materials and final products. From the standpoint of the environmental approach, there are serious efficiency imbalances in the pulp and paper industry, which justify the implementation of circular mechanisms for organizing economic systems. The overall efficiency is ensured by the use of renewable resources and obtaining environmental effects. Algorithms and parameters of green biotechnological regulations for pulp and paper industry waste recycling provide the possibility of microbiological production of a complex of products: biocomposites, bioplastics, medical products, fertilizers, feed additives, vitamin supplements, and bioenergy resources. A strategy for the efficient biochemical processing of pulp and paper waste into green ethanol was determined. The possibility of increasing the efficiency of alcoholic fermentation using various biocatalysts was experimentally confirmed. The technological features of this method, associated with the need for microaerobic fermentation modes, were determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
13. Biotechnological Basis of the Pulp and Paper Industry Circular Economic System
- Author
-
Nadezhda Kvasha, Olga Bolotnikova, and Ekaterina Malevskaia-Malevich
- Subjects
pulp and paper industry ,circular economy ,biorefining ,recycling ,bioethanol ,Economics as a science ,HB71-74 - Abstract
To ensure development sustainability, the linear economic approach is being transformed into a cyclical model. For the pulp and paper industry (PPI), which occupies a significant place in the Russian economy, the shift of circular principles to the field of bioeconomics is becoming more important. This requires the development of basic biotechnological approaches implemented in closed cycles (biorefining). The aim of this study was to develop the biotechnological foundations of the circular economic system of the pulp and paper industry. To achieve the goal, the factors for the implementation of the circular mechanism in the pulp and paper industry were established. The composition of pulp and paper waste was systematized, taking into account the places of their occurrence; the directions and forms of the biorefining of pulp and paper secondary renewable resources were determined; and the principal possibility of obtaining bioethanol, based on the whole complex of sugars from cellulose production wastes, is shown. A wide range of general scientific methods was involved (analysis, synthesis, classification, modeling, etc.). Statistical methods were used to process experimental results in the field of pulp and paper waste bioconversion. The biotechnologies involved included methods of destruction, detoxification, and conversion of useful resources into secondary raw materials and final products. From the standpoint of the environmental approach, there are serious efficiency imbalances in the pulp and paper industry, which justify the implementation of circular mechanisms for organizing economic systems. The overall efficiency is ensured by the use of renewable resources and obtaining environmental effects. Algorithms and parameters of green biotechnological regulations for pulp and paper industry waste recycling provide the possibility of microbiological production of a complex of products: biocomposites, bioplastics, medical products, fertilizers, feed additives, vitamin supplements, and bioenergy resources. A strategy for the efficient biochemical processing of pulp and paper waste into green ethanol was determined. The possibility of increasing the efficiency of alcoholic fermentation using various biocatalysts was experimentally confirmed. The technological features of this method, associated with the need for microaerobic fermentation modes, were determined.
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
14. Circular economy of shopping bags in emerging markets: A demographic comparative analysis of propensity to reuse plastic bags versus cotton bags and paper bags.
- Author
-
Mukucha, Paul, Jaravaza, Divaries Cosmas, and Nyengerai, Sarah
- Subjects
- *
PAPER bags , *PLASTIC recycling , *CIRCULAR economy , *SHOPPING bags , *PLASTIC bags , *COTTON - Abstract
This study seeks to profile the shoppers' propensity to reuse shopping bags and the type of shopping bags they reuse on the basis of demographics. The study used an observation method to record the consumers' shopping habits and a short questionnaire to record the participants' demographics. A binary regression analysis and a multinomial regression analysis were used to analyse data. The results indicated that the mature aged, women, and low income shoppers were more likely to practice reuse of plastic shopping bags than their respective counterparts. There were no statistically significant differences in the likelihood of young aged shoppers compared to mature aged shoppers and low income shoppers compared to high income shoppers using cotton bags than plastic bags. There were also no statistically significant differences in the likelihood of young aged shoppers compared to mature aged shoppers and male shoppers compared to female shoppers using paper bags than plastic bags. However, the results indicated a statically significant result in how males compared to females differed in their using of cotton bags than plastic bags and a statistically significant result in how low income shoppers compared to high income shoppers differed in their use of paper bags than plastic bags. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
15. Erythrosine–Dialdehyde Cellulose Nanocrystal Coatings for Antibacterial Paper Packaging
- Author
-
Shih-Chen Shi, Sing-Wei Ouyang, and Dieter Rahmadiawan
- Subjects
photodynamic antibacterial ,cellulose ,biopolymer ,circular economy ,Organic chemistry ,QD241-441 - Abstract
Though paper is an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic as a packaging material, it lacks antibacterial properties, and some papers have a low resistance to oil or water. In this study, a multifunctional paper-coating material was developed to reduce the use of plastic packaging and enhance paper performance. Natural cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) with excellent properties were used as the base material for the coating. The CNCs were functionalized into dialdehyde CNCs (DACNCs) through periodate oxidation. The DACNCs were subsequently complexed using erythrosine as a photosensitizer to form an erythrosine–CNC composite (Ery-DACNCs) with photodynamic inactivation. The Ery-DACNCs achieved inactivations above 90% after 30 min of green light irradiation and above 85% after 60 min of white light irradiation (to simulate real-world lighting conditions), indicating photodynamic inactivation effects. The optimal parameters for a layer-by-layer dip coating of kraft paper with Ery-DACNCs were 4.5-wt% Ery-DACNCs and 15 coating layers. Compared to non-coated kraft paper and polyethylene-coated paper, the Ery-DACNC-coated paper exhibited enhanced mechanical properties (an increase of 28% in bursting strength). More than 90% of the bacteria were inactivated after 40 min of green light irradiation, and more than 80% were inactivated after 60 min of white light irradiation.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
16. Sustainability Evaluation of a Paper and Pulp Industrial Waste Incorporation in Bituminous Pavements.
- Author
-
Simões, Fábio, Rios-Davila, Francisco-Javier, Paiva, Helena, Morais, Miguel, and Ferreira, Victor M.
- Subjects
BITUMINOUS pavements ,PAPER pulp ,INDUSTRIAL wastes ,CIRCULAR economy ,SUSTAINABILITY ,CRUMB rubber - Abstract
The valorization of wastes as an alternative or secondary raw material in various products and processes has been a solution for the implementation of sustainability, a safer environment, and the concept of circular economy in the efficient use and management of natural resources. To promote sustainability through a circular economy approach, this work tries to demonstrate the environmental gains that are obtained by bringing together, in an industrial symbiosis action, two large industrial sectors (the pulp and paper and the road pavement sectors) responsible for generating large amounts of wastes. A sustainability assessment, based on a life cycle and circular economy approach, is presented here, and discussed using a simple case study carried out on a real scale. Two wastes (dregs and grits) from the pulp and paper industry (PPI) were used to partially replace natural fine aggregates in the production of bituminous mixtures used on the top surface of road pavements. The impacts at a technical, environmental, economic, and social level were assessed and it was shown that this simple waste valorization action is not only positive for the final product from a technical point of view, but also for the environment, causing positive impacts on the different sustainability dimensions that were evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
17. The Circular Economy: An Exploratory Case Study from the Paper and Retail Industries
- Author
-
Peter Jones and Daphne Comfort
- Subjects
circular economy ,case study ,paper industry ,retail industry ,greenwash ,economic growth ,Regional economics. Space in economics ,HT388 - Abstract
Recent decades have witnessed increasing interest in the concept of the circular economy within both the business world and political circles. The circular economy spans the entire life cycle of products from product design through production, marketing, and consumption, to waste management, recycling, and re-use, and enthusiasm for putting the concept into practice has been identified across different sectors of the economy. This exploratory case study reviews how some of the leading companies in the paper and retail industries, have publicly addressed the circular economy. The case study outlines the nature of the circular economy, provides a cameo literature review of published work on the circular economy, describes the approach adopted for the case study, reports the findings of the review of how the leading companies in the paper and retail industries have addressed the circular economy, and discusses some wider issues.
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
18. Preparation and Properties of Waste Corrugated Paper Fiber/Polylactic Acid Co-Extruded Composite.
- Author
-
Su, Jian, Yang, Mannan, Zhang, Xiaomei, Fang, Changqing, Zheng, Yamin, Pei, Lu, and Liu, Ming
- Subjects
- *
POLYLACTIC acid , *WASTE paper , *PAPER recycling , *CIRCULAR economy , *PLANT fibers , *DEFORMATIONS (Mechanics) , *WASTE recycling - Abstract
In order to explore the methods of recycling waste paper, reduce environment pollution, and develop a circular economy, the application of waste corrugated paper to the strengthening of polylactic acid (PLA) was studied. Plant fiber from waste corrugated paper (WCPF) was used to prepare WCPF/PLA composite via co-extrusion. The WCPF was extracted from the waste corrugated paper by beating in a Valli beating machine and grinding in a disc grinder. KH-550 coupling agent was used to modify the surface of WCPF to improve the interface adhesive strength between the WCPF and PLA matrix. The effects of the contents of WCPF and KH-550 coupling agent on the mechanical properties, microstructure, crystallization properties, and thermostability of the WCPF/PLA composite were studied. The results show that the WCPF can be well separated from each other. The WCPF can be uniformly dispersed in the PLA matrix through a co-extrusion process. WCPF can increase the mechanical strength and deformation resistance ability of WCPF/PLA composite, and KH-550 coupling agent can further improve that of the WCPF/PLA composite. This study is of obvious significance to the recycling of waste paper and the development of a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2022
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
19. On the Conversion of Paper Waste and Rejects into High-Value Materials and Energy.
- Author
-
Abushammala, Hatem, Masood, Muhammad Adil, Ghulam, Salma Taqi, and Mao, Jia
- Abstract
The pulp and paper industry (PPI) is a major contributor to the global economy, but it also poses a challenge for waste disposal, as it generates large amounts of several waste streams. Among these, paper rejects are generated during the papermaking process and could account for up to 25% of the produced paper. Moreover, hundreds of millions of tons of paper are produced annually that end up in landfills if not burnt or recycled. Furthermore, the PPI significantly contributes to climate change and global warming in the form of deforestation and water and air pollution. Therefore, the impact of this industry on the sustainability of natural resources and its adverse environmental health effects requires special attention. This review focuses on discussing the sustainable routes to utilize paper waste and rejects from the PPI towards a circular economy. At first, it discusses the industry itself and its environmental impact, followed by the possible sustainable approaches that can be implemented to improve papermaking processes as well as waste management systems, including paper recycling. The literature indicates that paper recycling is crucial because, if appropriately designed, it significantly lowers greenhouse gas emissions, water and resources consumption, and manufacturing costs. However, several concerns have surfaced about the different chemicals that are used to improve recycling efficiency and recycled paper quality. Furthermore, paper recycling is limited to up to seven times. This review, therefore, goes on to highlight several sustainable waste management routes for paper waste utilization other than recycling by emphasizing the concept of converting paper waste and rejects into energy and high-value materials, including biofuels, biohydrogen, biomethane, heat, nanocellulose, hydrochar, construction materials, and soil amendments. Both the benefits and shortcomings of these waste management routes and their applications are discussed. It becomes clear from this review that sustainable management solutions for paper waste and rejects are implementable, but further research and development are still needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
20. Boosting the Circular Manufacturing of the Sustainable Paper Industry – A First Approach to Recycle Paper from Unexploited Sources such as Lightweight Packaging, Residual and Commercial Waste.
- Author
-
Burggräf, Peter, Steinberg, Fabian, Sauer, Carl René, Nettesheim, Philipp, Wigger, Marius, Becher, Alexander, Greiff, Kathrin, Raulf, Karoline, Spies, Alena, Köhler, Hannah, Huesmann, Robin, Atapin, Alexander, Kaufeld, Sebastian, Krolle, Arne, Faul, Andreas, Winter, Jens, Küppers, Bastian, and Ludes, Annika
- Abstract
In the past decades, the German paper industry has been increasing the sustainability of paper production by continuously using more recovered paper. Today, recovered paper is an essential secondary raw material to produce new paper. Nevertheless, around 20 % of the paper produced in Germany is still not returned to the recovered paper stream and instead is mostly thermally used. To further increase the use of fibers from recovered paper as secondary raw material and thus, to reduce primary energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, new approaches to recycle recovered paper from mixed waste streams are needed. In the research project "Energy savings in paper production by opening up the value chains of recovered paper from lightweight packaging, residual waste and commercial waste" (EnEWA), a treatment process is developed to recover and recycle recovered paper from the mentioned waste streams. The advanced mechanical process to be newly developed consists of dry-mechanical sorting, the manufacturing of economically usable secondary raw materials (defibration), their wet-mechanical dissolution, separation and hygienization and finally their reuse in paper production. This enables the exploitation of new waste streams in material recycling and thus contributes to reduced energy consumption as well as CO2 emissions within the circular economy. Initial material characterization analyses show that on the one hand the quality of the paper discarded in mixed waste streams is sufficient to be used as secondary raw material and that on the other hand up to 50 % of the paper discarded could have been disposed of within the separate paper collection. The results are incorporated in the development of a sorting process for pre-concentrates, which serves as input material for the treatment process to recover paper fibers. In further steps, the results generated will be integrated, for instance, into the future development of the minimum standard for packaging recycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
21. Sustainable Materials from Waste Paper: Thermal and Acoustical Characterization
- Author
-
Stefania Liuzzi, Chiara Rubino, Francesco Martellotta, and Pietro Stefanizzi
- Subjects
thermal properties ,acoustic performances ,paper waste ,sustainability ,energy efficiency ,circular economy ,Technology ,Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General) ,TA1-2040 ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Physics ,QC1-999 ,Chemistry ,QD1-999 - Abstract
A growing research interest currently exists in the use of paper as a building material. This work aims to present the results of a measurement campaign developed on innovative waste paper-based building components. The research was carried out in Southern Italy and used some local by-product aggregates. Three different mixture designs were developed in the laboratory by adding three kinds of biomass to a pulp paper blend: fava bean residues (FB), sawdust powder (SP) and coffee grains (CG) extracted from exhausted chaffs. A physical characterization was carried out measuring the bulk density and bulk porosity. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis of the single aggregates was followed by a microstructure analysis of the final components. Bulk density evaluation showed a range between 200 and 348 kg·m−3. Furthermore, thermal performances were measured; the thermal conductivity of the experimented samples ranged from 0.071 to 0.093 W·m−1·K−1, thus it is possible to classify the tested materials as thermal insulators. Moreover, the acoustic properties were evaluated and tested. The normal incidence sound absorption coefficient was measured by the impedance tube on cylindrical specimens. In general, a different behavior was observed between the upper and lower base of each specimen due to the manufacturing process and the shrinkage caused by the different interactions occurring between the aggregates and the pulp paper waste; for example, the presence of sawdust reduced shrinkage in the final specimens, with consequent smaller physical variations among the two faces. The correlation existing between the manufacturing process and the microstructural properties was also investigated by the estimation of the non-acoustical parameters using the inverse method and taking into account the JCA (Johnson, Champoux and Allard) model as a reference.
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
22. The Reinforcing Effect of Waste Corrugated Paper Fiber on Polylactic Acid.
- Author
-
Su, Jian, Jiang, Zhiwei, Fang, Changqing, Zheng, Yamin, Yang, Mannan, Pei, Lu, and Huang, Zhigang
- Subjects
- *
WASTE paper , *PAPER recycling , *POLLUTANTS , *POLYLACTIC acid , *WASTE recycling , *CIRCULAR economy - Abstract
To improve the recycle value of waste paper and promote circular economic development, waste corrugated paper fiber (WCPF) was used as a reinforcing agent to prepare waste corrugated paper fiber/polylactic acid (WCPF/PLA) composites via dichloromethane solvent which can be reused. The WCPF in the waste corrugated paper is extracted by beating in a Valli beating machine for different time lengths and grinding in a disc grinder. The effects of beating time and the content of WCPF on the microstructure, mechanical properties, thermal decomposition process, and crystallization properties of the WCPF/PLA composite were studied. The result shows that the WCPF can be well separated from each other and can be evenly dispersed in the PLA matrix. When 25 wt% WCPF which was beat for 30 min was used, the composite has the greatest improvement in tensile property. This study provides a new process for the recycling of waste paper in the application of polymer reinforcement. The research on waste paper fiber and degradable polymer composite is of great significance for reducing environmental pollutants and developing circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2022
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
23. Transparent Structures for ZnO Thin Film Paper Transistors Fabricated by Pulsed Electron Beam Deposition.
- Author
-
Gherendi, Florin, Dobrin, Daniela, and Nistor, Magdalena
- Subjects
THIN film transistors ,ELECTRON beam deposition ,INDIUM gallium zinc oxide ,ZINC oxide films ,ELECTRON beams ,FLEXIBLE display systems ,CIRCULAR economy ,THRESHOLD voltage - Abstract
Thin film transistors on paper are increasingly in demand for emerging applications, such as flexible displays and sensors for wearable and disposable devices, making paper a promising substrate for green electronics and the circular economy. ZnO self-assembled thin film transistors on a paper substrate, also using paper as a gate dielectric, were fabricated by pulsed electron beam deposition (PED) at room temperature. These self-assembled ZnO thin film transistor source–channel–drain structures were obtained in a single deposition process using 200 and 300 µm metal wires as obstacles in the path of the ablation plasma. These transistors exhibited a memory effect, with two distinct states, "on" and "off", and with a field-effect mobility of about 25 cm
2 /Vs in both states. For the "on" state, a threshold voltage (Vth on = −1.75 V) and subthreshold swing (S = 1.1 V/decade) were determined, while, in the "off" state, Vth off = +1.8 V and S = 1.34 V/decade were obtained. A 1.6 μA maximum drain current was obtained in the "off" state, and 11.5 μA was obtained in the "on" state of the transistor. Due to ZnO's non-toxicity, such self-assembled transistors are promising as components for flexible, disposable smart labels and other various green paper-based electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
24. Multilayer Sheets Based on Double Coatings of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) on Paper Substrate for Sustainable Food Packaging Applications
- Author
-
Eva Hernández-García, Pedro A. V. Freitas, Pedro Zomeño, Chelo González-Martínez, and Sergio Torres-Giner
- Subjects
paper ,PHBV ,multilayers ,food packaging ,Circular Economy ,Technology ,Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General) ,TA1-2040 ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Physics ,QC1-999 ,Chemistry ,QD1-999 - Abstract
This work reports on the development and performance evaluation of newly developed paper sheets coated, on both sides, with thin films of biodegradable poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) for applications of food packaging. For this, PHBV/paper/PHBV multilayers were first prepared by the thermo-sealing technique, optimizing the process variables of temperature and time. Thereafter, the multilayer sheets were characterized in terms of their morphological, optical, thermal, mechanical, and barrier properties and compared with equivalent paper structures double coated with high-barrier multilayer films of petrochemical polymers. The results indicated that the double coatings of PHBV successfully improved the mechanical resistance and ductility, protected from moisture, and also reduced the aroma and oxygen permeances of paper, having a minimal effect on its optical and thermal properties. Finally, the compostability of the resultant multilayer sheets was analyzed, confirming that the presence of the PHBV coatings slightly delayed the aerobic biodegradation and disintegration of paper.
- Published
- 2022
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
25. Sustainable Materials from Waste Paper: Thermal and Acoustical Characterization.
- Author
-
Liuzzi, Stefania, Rubino, Chiara, Martellotta, Francesco, and Stefanizzi, Pietro
- Subjects
WASTE paper ,WASTE products ,FAVA bean ,PAPER pulp ,ABSORPTION of sound - Abstract
A growing research interest currently exists in the use of paper as a building material. This work aims to present the results of a measurement campaign developed on innovative waste paper-based building components. The research was carried out in Southern Italy and used some local by-product aggregates. Three different mixture designs were developed in the laboratory by adding three kinds of biomass to a pulp paper blend: fava bean residues (FB), sawdust powder (SP) and coffee grains (CG) extracted from exhausted chaffs. A physical characterization was carried out measuring the bulk density and bulk porosity. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis of the single aggregates was followed by a microstructure analysis of the final components. Bulk density evaluation showed a range between 200 and 348 kg·m
−3 . Furthermore, thermal performances were measured; the thermal conductivity of the experimented samples ranged from 0.071 to 0.093 W·m−1 ·K−1 , thus it is possible to classify the tested materials as thermal insulators. Moreover, the acoustic properties were evaluated and tested. The normal incidence sound absorption coefficient was measured by the impedance tube on cylindrical specimens. In general, a different behavior was observed between the upper and lower base of each specimen due to the manufacturing process and the shrinkage caused by the different interactions occurring between the aggregates and the pulp paper waste; for example, the presence of sawdust reduced shrinkage in the final specimens, with consequent smaller physical variations among the two faces. The correlation existing between the manufacturing process and the microstructural properties was also investigated by the estimation of the non-acoustical parameters using the inverse method and taking into account the JCA (Johnson, Champoux and Allard) model as a reference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
26. A Way to Improve Recycling Potential of Fibers and to Achieve Circular Economy.
- Author
-
Bok Jin Lee and Ko, Peter
- Subjects
CIRCULAR economy ,FIBERS ,RECYCLED paper ,CARDBOARD ,PAPER recycling - Abstract
Even though the recycling of paper and paperboard is quite successful when compared to the recycling of other resources, there are many things to improve. Recovering the used paper and paperboard without contamination and sending it back to the papermill that produced it would enhance the recycling potential and efficiency of recovered fiber resources. Close collaboration between a paper and packaging company and a logistics company has made a big improvement in recycling and achieved the circular economy of fiber resources. It is time to find better ways to collaborate, thereby improving our capability to keep our planet green. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
27. Policies for the Circular Economy: The Case of Paper Industry
- Author
-
Paolo Rizzi and Sandro Danesi
- Subjects
Circular Economy ,Industrial Processes ,Paper industry ,Sustainability ,Global Competition ,Marketing. Distribution of products ,HF5410-5417.5 - Abstract
The circular economy is considered by international institutions such as the United Nations and the European Union as the most urgent strategy to orient the economic development model towards sustainability. To find concrete applications, the circular economy requires greater awareness in consumers and businesses. The Italian paper industry, which boasts high levels of competitiveness at an international level, has initiated important restructuring and rationalization processes over the last decade with a view to recycling and sustainability. Only the final phase of the production process is yet to comply with all circular economy criteria, that is, the recovery of production waste (pulper). Hence, the actual technological and strategic challenge of the paper industry is to phase out landfilling of recyclable waste and implement energy recovery strategies, as well as promoting the use of renewable sources.
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
28. Closed loop recycling of electrically damaged meta-aramid papers with high electrical insulation and mechanical strength.
- Author
-
Lv, Fangcheng, Fu, Lvqian, Wang, Qibin, Sun, Kaixuan, Yang, Rui, Fan, Sidi, and Yu, Xiang
- Subjects
- *
ELECTRIC insulators & insulation , *ELECTRIC breakdown , *WASTE paper , *CIRCULAR economy , *INSULATING materials , *HONEYCOMBS , *PAPER recycling - Abstract
High-performance aramid papers are ideal insulating materials in the electric industry, due to their superior mechanical strength and insulation capabilities. However, when subjected to prolonged high-voltage and high-power operations, these papers are prone to electrical damage, such as breakdown or corona aging. Unfortunately, most damaged aramid papers are viewed as mere waste, discarded through landfill or other unsustainable disposal methods. It is not only contrary to circular economy principles but also poses a significant environmental threat due to the potential for pollution. Herein, a closed-loop recycling strategy is proposed that efficiently and effectively reclaims electrically damaged meta-aramid papers. Using the DMAc/LiCl deprotonation system, waste aramid papers are completely decomposed into molecular chains, exposing carbon residues resulting from electrical breakdown. These carbon residues are removed through a step-by-step purification process. A reprotonation treatment is then applied to regenerate new meta-aramid papers by reforming the intermolecular hydrogen bonds. This approach not only fully restores the original honeycomb-like structure but also ensures the crystallization and hydrogen bond content, maintaining both electrical and mechanical properties at above 90 % of their original values. Notably, our recycling method is also compatible with aramid-based composites, achieving exceptional recycling efficiency. [Display omitted] • Electrically damaged meta-aramid paper can be recycled in a closed loop. • The DMAc/LiCl system completely dissolves waste aramid into PMIA molecular chains. • Carbon residues induced by electrical breakdown can be removed by purification. • The synergistic conservation of electrical and mechanical properties exceeds 90 %. • Closed loop recycling strategy is also viable for inorganic-aramid composite paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
29. Increasing Paper and Cardboard Recycling: Impacts on the Forest Sector and Carbon Emissions.
- Author
-
Lorang, Etienne, Lobianco, Antonello, and Delacote, Philippe
- Subjects
RECYCLED paper ,CARBON emissions ,CLIMATE change mitigation ,WOOD products ,CIRCULAR economy ,PAPER recycling ,WASTE recycling - Abstract
Recycling is emerging as both a viable alternative to extraction in many industries and a cornerstone of the circular economy. In this paper, we assess the role of paper and cardboard recycling on the forest sector, from both an economic and carbon perspective. For this purpose, we add the recycling industry to an existing forest-sector model in an attempt to capture its effects on other wood products and the overall forest resource. As the forest sector has an important potential for climate change mitigation, this model allows us to assess the effects of increased paper and cardboard recycling on the availability of the natural resource and the carbon balance of the forest sector. We show that these results are strongly linked to the hypotheses of substitutability and/or complementarity of recycled pulp and virgin pulpwood. Although we find increased emissions at the pulp sector level, the effects on emissions in other wood products are small. When pulp products are considered substitutes, we find the impact on total net sequestration to be positive. In the case where pulp products are considered complements, we find the impact on total net sequestration to be negative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
30. Nazi German waste recovery and the vision of a circular economy: The case of waste paper and rags.
- Author
-
Weber, Heike
- Subjects
WASTE recycling ,WASTE paper ,CIRCULAR economy ,WASTE salvage ,NAZI Germany, 1933-1945 ,GENOCIDE ,PAPER recycling - Abstract
In Nazi Germany (1933–45), reclaiming waste became an intrinsic component of the regime's economy as well as its ideological, racial, and expansionist ambitions. National Socialist interventions into waste streams began in 1934 with salvage campaigns. The state then brought urban waste policies and municipal waste services under its control, restructuring and 'Aryanising' the waste salvage trade. Moreover, both consumers and producers were prompted to collect and reprocess waste. Over time, the gradual expansion of the Nazi waste recovery policies and campaigns – here referred to as the 'Nazi waste exploitation regime' – brought forth a determined vision of a circular economy in which no waste whatsoever should escape its reclamation for the national community or Volksgemeinschaft. This article sketches the actors, structures, and objectives of this waste exploitation regime for the case of rags and paper and uncovers its entanglement with Nazi racist and genocidal ideology and expansionism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2022
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
31. E-Waste Management in Serbia, Focusing on the Possibility of Applying Automated Separation Using Robots.
- Author
-
Nišić, Dragana, Lukić, Branko, Gordić, Zaviša, Pantelić, Uroš, and Vukićević, Arso
- Subjects
ELECTRONIC waste ,ELECTRONIC waste management ,RECYCLING centers ,PAPER recycling ,ROBOTS ,ROBOTICS ,ELECTRONIC equipment - Abstract
To encourage proper waste management for electrical and electronic devices (e-waste), it is necessary to invest heavily in the development of recycling technologies. One way to improve the process is to automate separating the shredded parts of e-waste using a robot. This paper's literature review, utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework, showcases potential robotic technologies for e-waste separation. However, the intricate design of these devices can pose significant challenges in their implementation. Various legal, organizational, and sociological obstacles have left Serbia's e-waste management practice underdeveloped, resulting in an unsatisfactory recycling rate. In this paper, we examined the possibility of using robots in the precise example of recycling refrigerators in a recycling center in Eastern Serbia, concluding that such a solution would have multiple positive effects, both on the employees and the working environment, on the operations of the recycling center itself, and on increasing the e-waste recycling rate in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
32. Productization of Industrial Side Streams into By-Products--Case: Fiber Sludge from Pulp and Paper Industry.
- Author
-
Leppänen, Tero, Mustonen, Erno, Saarela, Henri, Kuokkanen, Matti, and Tervonen, Pekka
- Subjects
- *
PAPER industry , *NATURAL resources , *SUSTAINABLE development , *PROBLEM solving , *ECONOMIC expansion - Abstract
The increasing pressure on natural resources and the climate has been noted by businesses and governments worldwide, who now face the difficult task of integrating paths of environmental sustainability and economic growth. One promising approach to sustainable development, reducing the pressure on natural resources and solving waste problems is circular economy. From different ways of implementing circular economy, this study focuses on the productization of industrial side streams, which carry a great deal of underutilized potential. In this article, the productization of pulp and paper industry side stream, fiber sludge, for commercial use as a dust-binding agent is studied via a descriptive, in-depth case study. Apart from inconsistent quality, fluctuating supply, cost of storage and logistics, what makes industrial side stream utilization challenging is the lack of knowledge that stakeholders have about side streams and their utilization and the lack of new value chain development for their commercial use. Therefore, it is essential for all parties involved to have a clearer vision of what is being sold for what purposes, through productization. This study found that the productization of side streams follows the same steps as the productization of any other traditional product, and the productized side streams can be added to the company's product portfolio as by-products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
33. Policies for the Circular Economy: the Case of Paper Industry.
- Author
-
Rizzi, Paolo and Danesi, Sandro
- Subjects
PAPER industry ,CELLULOSE fibers ,WASTE salvage ,SUSTAINABLE development ,ECO-labeling ,PAPER mill waste ,MILLS & mill-work ,PLANT fibers ,COVID-19 pandemic - Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
34. Characterization of Cellulose Derived from Invasive Alien Species Plant Waste for Application in the Papermaking Industry: Physic-Mechanical, Optical, and Chemical Property Analysis.
- Author
-
Iglesias, Antía, Cancela, Ángeles, Soler Baena, Ana, and Sánchez, Ángel
- Subjects
INTRODUCED species ,INTRODUCED plants ,PAPER industry ,ANALYTICAL chemistry ,CHEMICAL properties ,EUCALYPTUS - Abstract
Featured Application: Papermaking industry and technology. Innovative applications of vegetal residues. This study examines the potential of four invasive plant species, both arboreal and herbaceous, within the riparian forest of the Umia River in Galicia, a common ecosystem in northern Spain. These invasive species (Arundo donax, Phytolacca americana, Eucalyptus globulus, and Tradescantia fluminensis) were collected and assessed for their suitability as an alternative source of pulp and paper materials for the paper industry to mitigate the environmental impacts associated with conventional cellulose fiber production from harmful monocultures. Cellulosic material from leaves, bark, and/or stems of each of the selected species was isolated from lignin and hemicelluloses through kraft pulping processes. Resulted fibers and pulps were analyzed visually, morphologically, chemically, and mechanically to evaluate their papermaking properties. To compare these properties with those of commercially available pulp, test sheets were concurrently produced using commercial bleached Eucalyptus cellulose. The findings reveal that the employed fibers exhibit promising characteristics for artistic paper production. Regarding the pulp, two refining times were tested in a PFI machine, and the Schopper–Riegler degree was measured. Paper sheets underwent various tests to determine thickness, basis weight, apparent volume, apparent density, permeability, and chemical composition, as well as microscopic optical and morphological properties. The fibers obtained from the waste derived from the removal of invasive exotic species and biodiversity control present a viable and intriguing alternative for decentralized paper production, yielding noteworthy results for the creative sector. This research highlights the potential of harnessing invasive species for sustainable and innovative paper manufacturing practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
35. The Circular Economy: An Exploratory Case Study from the Paper and Retail Industries
- Author
-
Daphne Comfort and Peter Jones
- Subjects
Consumption (economics) ,Enthusiasm ,Product design ,Circular economy ,Economic sector ,media_common.quotation_subject ,circular economy ,General Medicine ,retail industry ,economic growth ,greenwash ,ComputingMilieux_GENERAL ,Politics ,case study ,Regional economics. Space in economics ,paper industry ,Work (electrical) ,HF5001_Business ,HT388 ,Production (economics) ,Business ,Industrial organization ,media_common - Abstract
Recent decades have witnessed increasing interest in the concept of the circular economy within both the business world and political circles. The circular economy spans the entire life cycle of products from product design through production, marketing, and consumption, to waste management, recycling, and re-use, and enthusiasm for putting the concept into practice has been identified across different sectors of the economy. This exploratory case study reviews how some of the leading companies in the paper and retail industries, have publicly addressed the circular economy. The case study outlines the nature of the circular economy, provides a cameo literature review of published work on the circular economy, describes the approach adopted for the case study, reports the findings of the review of how the leading companies in the paper and retail industries have addressed the circular economy, and discusses some wider issues. Keywords: circular economy, case study, paper industry, retail industry, greenwash, economic growth
- Published
- 2021
36. Exploring greenhouse gas emissions pathways and stakeholder perspectives: In search of circular economy policy innovation for waste paper management and carbon neutrality in Hong Kong.
- Author
-
Chen, Peixiu, Sauerwein, Meike, and Steuer, Benjamin
- Subjects
- *
GREENHOUSE gases , *WASTE paper , *WASTE management , *CIRCULAR economy , *PAPER recycling , *CARBON offsetting , *GREENHOUSE gas mitigation , *CARBON nanofibers - Abstract
Waste paper disposed in landfills notably contributes to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and impedes more sustainable, circular alternatives, such as recycling. In Hong Kong, this unsustainable approach is currently dominant as 68% of waste paper products are treated in landfills in 2020. To contextualize the impact of local waste paper management and explore mitigation potentials of circular alternatives, this paper develops a quantitative assessment framework around GHG emissions development trajectories. Combining guidelines of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), national GHG inventories, and local parameters from life cycle analysis, five GHG emissions projections were simulated along the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) until 2060. Most recent baselines indicate that Hong Kong's current waste paper treatment generated 638,360 tons CO 2 -eq in 2020, comprising 1,821,040 tons CO 2 -eq from landfill and 671,320 tons CO 2 -eq from recycling, and −1,854,000 tons CO 2 -eq from primary material replacement. Proceeding along a Business-as-Usual scenario under SSP5, GHG emissions will dramatically increase to a net 1,072,270 tons CO 2 -eq by 2060, whereas a recycling-intensive scenario will lead to a net saving of −4,323,190 tons CO 2 -eq. To complement the quantitative evidence on the benefits of waste paper recycling, field research was conducted to explore the feasibility of circular policy innovation from the perspective of recycling stakeholders. These empirical qualitative and quantitative findings from stakeholders' business routines and material transactions provide crucial indications for policy and institutional innovation: Essentially, for Hong Kong to improve waste paper recycling capacities and facilitate a circular economy (CE), local stakeholders require support via fiscal policy measures (financial subsidies or tax reductions) and infrastructure improvements (delivery access and material storage). In sum, this study employs a novel analytical framework combining original qualitative and quantitative evidence to provide policy innovation towards circular, GHG emission-saving waste paper management. [Display omitted] • A new framework assessing greenhouse gas emissions from waste paper treatment. • Exploring long-term carbon neutrality pathways for managing waste paper. • Using empirical evidence from recycling stakeholders for circular policy innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
37. Resource value flow analysis of paper-making enterprises: A Chinese case study.
- Author
-
Li, Zhen, Zeng, Huixiang, Xiao, Xu, Cao, Jin, Yang, Chaoji, and Zhang, Kaixin
- Subjects
- *
PAPER industry , *PAPERMAKING , *LIABILITY for environmental damages , *COST accounting , *SUSTAINABLE development , *ENERGY consumption - Abstract
Abstract Papermaking enterprises are currently under both environmental pressure and economic pressure for sustainable development in China. Thus, the efficiency, effectiveness, and benefits of resource utilization need to be improved. High-consumption and high-pollution companies should manufacture paper using sustainable methods. This study highlights a resource value flow analysis from the circular economy perspective, developing an extension of material flow cost accounting and modifying it by accounting for environmental damage as well as economic benefits. With reference to the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle, this specific case study was conducted to verify the comprehensive utility of resource value flow analysis by establishing decision-making prioritization according to the dualistic diagnosis of "internal resource loss–external environmental damage costs." In general, applying a resource value flow analysis can both reduce resource consumption and minimize environmental damage, enhancing the sustainable development of a process industry with limited resources. Highlights • Material flows and value flows form an interactive unit in the resource value flow analysis model. • The resource value flow analysis model extends the environmental dimension of material flow cost accounting. • A dualistic diagnosis of "internal resource loss and external environmental damage costs" can achieve both economic profits and environmental benefits. • The Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle was introduced to strengthen the practical application of the resource value flow analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2019
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
38. Multilayer Sheets Based on Double Coatings of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate- co -3-hydroxyvalerate) on Paper Substrate for Sustainable Food Packaging Applications.
- Author
-
Hernández-García, Eva, Freitas, Pedro A. V., Zomeño, Pedro, González-Martínez, Chelo, and Torres-Giner, Sergio
- Subjects
FOOD packaging ,THERMO-optical effects ,CIRCULAR economy ,SURFACE coatings ,THIN films ,EDIBLE coatings ,PLASTICS - Abstract
Featured Application: One of the main technological challenges within Circular Economy strategies is to minimize the environmental impact of plastic packaging. In this regard, the use of PHBV films to coat paper sheets represents a highly sustainable strategy to produce food packaging multilayer structures with improved mechanical and barrier properties. This work reports on the development and performance evaluation of newly developed paper sheets coated, on both sides, with thin films of biodegradable poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) for applications of food packaging. For this, PHBV/paper/PHBV multilayers were first prepared by the thermo-sealing technique, optimizing the process variables of temperature and time. Thereafter, the multilayer sheets were characterized in terms of their morphological, optical, thermal, mechanical, and barrier properties and compared with equivalent paper structures double coated with high-barrier multilayer films of petrochemical polymers. The results indicated that the double coatings of PHBV successfully improved the mechanical resistance and ductility, protected from moisture, and also reduced the aroma and oxygen permeances of paper, having a minimal effect on its optical and thermal properties. Finally, the compostability of the resultant multilayer sheets was analyzed, confirming that the presence of the PHBV coatings slightly delayed the aerobic biodegradation and disintegration of paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
39. Industry 4.0 and global value chains: what implications for circular economy in SME?
- Author
-
Suchek, Nathalia, Ferreira, João J.M., and Fernandes, Paula O.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
40. The impact of the industrial robots on the employment rate and wages: prospects of circular economy and sustainable development
- Author
-
Zhu, Hongfei, Zhang, Xiekui, and Yu, Baocheng
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
41. Managing circular ecosystems in imperfect contexts – the case of extractive fishing in the Brazilian Amazon region
- Author
-
Marreiros Barbosa, Neuzaí, Hellmeister, Pedro Ibrahim, Marotti De Mello, Adriana, and Braz, Antonio Carlos
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
42. Single-Use Paper Cups Circularity Improvement and Environmental Impact Mitigation Measures for Lappeenranta University of Technology Campus
- Author
-
Valdone Suskevice and Kaisa Grönman
- Subjects
paper cups ,circular economy ,LCA ,waste management ,resources ,packaging ,environmental impact reduction ,circularity potential ,materials management ,General Works - Abstract
This study examines the generation and treatment of disposable single-use paper cups at Lappeenranta University of Technology (LUT) campus located in Finland. The study was carried out within the LUT campus considering take-away venues and the waste collection system, with the intersection of the local waste treatment system. The University was considered as a closed system where different activities and services are taking place. This work contributes to a better understanding of newly adopted circularity measures and application possibilities. The research attempted to evaluate the environmental impacts, and reduction options of disposable single-use paper cups within the Lappeenranta University of Technology (LUT) campus, and measured the circularity indicator of single-use paper cups.
- Published
- 2019
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
43. In Situ Production and Application of Cellulose Nanofibers to Improve Recycled Paper Production
- Author
-
Ana Balea, Jose Luis Sanchez-Salvador, M. Concepcion Monte, Noemi Merayo, Carlos Negro, and Angeles Blanco
- Subjects
nanocellulose ,cellulose nanofibers ,recycled paper ,mechanical properties ,drainage ,retention ,circular economy ,Organic chemistry ,QD241-441 - Abstract
The recycled paper and board industry needs to improve the quality of their products to meet customer demands. The refining process and strength additives are commonly used to increase mechanical properties. Interfiber bonding can also be improved using cellulose nanofibers (CNF). A circular economy approach in the industrial implementation of CNF can be addressed through the in situ production of CNF using side cellulose streams of the process as raw material, avoiding transportation costs and reducing industrial wastes. Furthermore, CNF fit for use can be produced for specific industrial applications.This study evaluates the feasibility of using two types of recycled fibers, simulating the broke streams of two paper machines producing newsprint and liner for cartonboard, to produce in situ CNF for direct application on the original pulps, old newsprint (ONP), and old corrugated container (OCC), and to reinforce the final products. The CNF were obtained by 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-1-piperidinyloxy (TEMPO)-mediated oxidation and homogenization at 600 bar. Handsheets were prepared with disintegrated recycled pulp and different amounts of CNF using a conventional three-component retention system. Results show that 3 wt.% of CNF produced with 10 mmol of NaClO per gram of dry pulp improve tensile index of ONP ~30%. For OCC, the same treatment and CNF dose increase tensile index above 60%. In both cases, CNF cause a deterioration of drainage, but this effect is effectively counteracted by optimising the retention system.
- Published
- 2019
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
44. Nazi German waste recovery and the vision of a circular economy: The case of waste paper and rags
- Author
-
Heike Weber
- Subjects
History ,Expansionism ,060106 history of social sciences ,Circular economy ,media_common.quotation_subject ,05 social sciences ,Waste paper ,Nazism ,06 humanities and the arts ,language.human_language ,German ,Political science ,Political economy ,0502 economics and business ,language ,Business, Management and Accounting (miscellaneous) ,0601 history and archaeology ,Waste recovery ,Ideology ,Nazi Germany ,Business and International Management ,050203 business & management ,media_common - Abstract
In Nazi Germany (1933–45), reclaiming waste became an intrinsic component of the regime’s economy as well as its ideological, racial, and expansionist ambitions. National Socialist interventions in...
- Published
- 2021
45. Organic recycling of multilayer sheets based on double coatings of polyhydroxyalcanoate on paper substrate
- Author
-
Cortijo González, Claudia
- Subjects
Paper ,Food preservation ,Máster Universitario en Ingeniería Agronómica-Master Universitari en Enginyeria Agronòmica ,Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) ,TECNOLOGIA DE ALIMENTOS ,Circular economy ,Envases y desechables ,CIENCIA DE LOS MATERIALES E INGENIERIA METALURGICA ,Economía circular ,Packaging and disposables ,Polihidroxibutirato-co-hidroxivalerato ,Conservación de alimentos ,Papel - Abstract
[ES] El objetivo de este trabajo es estudiar la compostabilidad de láminas de papel recubiertas, en ambas caras, por films biodegradables de polihidroxibutirato-co-hidroxivalerato (PHBV). Durante trabajos anteriores, se desarrollaron y caracterizaron láminas multicapa de PHBV/papel/PHBV, concluyendo que las mismas son aptas para dar lugar a envases para conservar alimentos o productos desechables en contacto con alimentos. En el presente trabajo se pretende analizar el reciclaje orgánico de estas nuevas láminas multicapa, estudiando el efecto del biopolímero sobre la compostabilidad del papel, mediante la realización de ensayos de biodesintegración en condiciones controladas de temperatura y humedad. Para ello se analizará la compostabilidad de las láminas multicapa de PHBV con papel y se comparará con láminas de papel sin recubrir y films de PHBV sin papel, así como láminas de papel recubiertas con polímeros petroquímicos no biodegradables. Con este estudio se pretende determinar la idoneidad de las nuevas multicapa para aplicaciones sostenibles de envasado de alimentos. [EN] The objective of this work is to study the compostability of paper sheets coated, on both sides, with biodegradable poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) films. During previous works, multilayer sheets of PHBV/paper/PHBV were developed and characterized, concluding that they are suitable to give rise to containers to preserve food or disposable products in contact with food. In the present work it is intended to analyze the organic recycling of these new multilayer sheets, studying the effect of the biopolymer on the compostability of the paper, by carrying out biodisintegration tests under controlled conditions of temperature and humidity. To this end, the compostability of paper multilayers double coated with PHBV will be analyzed and compared with uncoated paper sheets and PHBV films without paper, as well as paper sheets coated with non-biodegradable petrochemical polymers. This study aims to determine the suitability of the new multilayers for sustainable food packaging applications.
- Published
- 2022
46. Carbonized Solid Fuel Production from Polylactic Acid and Paper Waste Due to Torrefaction
- Author
-
Kacper Świechowski, Christian Zafiu, and Andrzej Białowiec
- Subjects
torrefaction ,solid fuel ,waste to carbon ,circular economy ,biodegradable materials ,calorific value ,Technology ,Electrical engineering. Electronics. Nuclear engineering ,TK1-9971 ,Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General) ,TA1-2040 ,Microscopy ,QH201-278.5 ,Descriptive and experimental mechanics ,QC120-168.85 - Abstract
The quantity of biodegradable plastics is increasing steadily and taking a larger share in the residual waste stream. As the calorific value of biodegradable plastic is almost two-fold lower than that of conventional ones, its increasing quantity decreases the overall calorific value of municipal solid waste and refuse-derived fuel which is used as feedstock for cement and incineration plants. For that reason, in this work, the torrefaction of biodegradable waste, polylactic acid (PLA), and paper was performed for carbonized solid fuel (CSF) production. In this work, we determined the process yields, fuel properties, process kinetics, theoretical energy, and mass balance. We show that the calorific value of PLA cannot be improved by torrefaction, and that the process cannot be self-sufficient, while the calorific value of paper can be improved up to 10% by the same process. Moreover, the thermogravimetric analysis revealed that PLA decomposes in one stage at ~290–400 °C with a maximum peak at 367 °C, following a 0.42 reaction order with the activation energy of 160.05 kJ·(mol·K)−1.
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
47. Invasive Alien Plant Species for Use in Paper and Packaging Materials.
- Author
-
Vrabič-Brodnjak, Urška and Možina, Klemen
- Subjects
INTRODUCED species ,PACKAGING materials ,PLANT invasions ,INVASIVE plants ,WASTE minimization ,CIRCULAR economy ,CELLULOSE nanocrystals - Abstract
Invasive plant species can impede the establishment and growth of native plants and affect several ecosystem properties. These properties include soil cover, nutrient cycling, fire regimes, and hydrology. Controlling invasive plants is therefore a necessary, but usually expensive, step in restoring an ecosystem. The sustainability of materials with an emphasis on the use of local resources plays an important role in the circular economy. The use of alternative fibers from invasive plants promotes local production in smaller paper mills that offer the protection of local species and the reduction of waste and invasive plants. A synthesis of the literature is needed to understand the various impacts of invasive plants and their practical control in the context of papermaking applications and to identify associated knowledge gaps. To improve our understanding of the practical application of invasive species in the paper industry, we reviewed the existing literature on invasive plant species in the area of fiber production, printability, coating solution production, dyes, and extracts, and collected information on the major invasive plant species in Europe and the methods used for various applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2022
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
48. Paper Waste Recycling. Circular Economy Aspects
- Author
-
Dagnija Blumberga, Rudite Vesere, Zanda U. Ozola, and Silvija Nora Kalnins
- Subjects
020209 energy ,paper waste bricks ,TJ807-830 ,02 engineering and technology ,010501 environmental sciences ,bioenergy ,01 natural sciences ,Renewable energy sources ,cellulose nanofibers and nanocrystals ,Bioenergy ,0202 electrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineering ,Waste recycling ,0105 earth and related environmental sciences ,General Environmental Science ,bioethanol ,film of biopolymer ,Waste management ,Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment ,Circular economy ,paper ,paper waste ,Porous carbon ,porous carbon ,Biofuel ,hydrogen ,Environmental science ,biofuel ,enzymatic sugars - Abstract
Paper waste is a raw material for a lot of products with different added value. The engineering, economic and environmental aspects of paper waste recycling are analysed for production of composite material, cellulose nanofibers and nanocrystals, bricks with paper components, porous carbon, film of biopolymer, enzymatic sugar and bioenergy: bioethanol, hydrogen and biofuel. Through multicriteria analysis, it was possible to determine the most feasible paper waste recycling product in case of four product groups: egg packaging boxes, cardboard, reused paper, cellulose nanomaterials (nanofibers and nanocrystals). The production of cellulose nanofibres and cellulose nanocrystals has an advantage over egg packaging and cardboard production as well as reusable paper.
- Published
- 2019
49. Evaluation of the potential of paper fibres for better management of natural resources
- Author
-
Ferrá González, Mariana, Valls Vidal, Cristina, Carnicé Bañeres, Pilar, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya. Departament d’Enginyeria Gràfica i de Disseny, and Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya. CELBIOTECH - Enginyeria Paperera
- Subjects
Residus -- Minimització ,Enginyeria paperera [Àrees temàtiques de la UPC] ,Circular economy ,Minimización de residuo ,Economia circular ,Waste minimization ,Recovered fibers ,Waste paper -- Recycling ,Papel reciclado ,Fibras recuperadas ,Economía circular ,Paper vell -- Reciclatge ,Waste reduction ,Recycled paper - Abstract
La industria papelera española está comprometida con el reciclaje y apuesta por cumplir con los objetivos de una economía circular. Pero la elevada demanda de fibras recuperadas ha creado un alto impacto en los precios de ésta, produciendo una subida en los costes y una reducción de su disponibilidad. Además, se suma la gran diversidad de tipologías de fibras que pueden encontrarse en el papel recuperado, lo que dificulta el control, y el aprovechamiento total de la materia prima. El objetivo de este trabajo es poder optimizar el uso de las fibras para producir un ahorro en costes de materia prima, buscando la similitud de propiedades entre las fibras recuperadas, manteniendo constantes las propiedades físicas y mecánicas del papel fabricado. La presente investigación se enmarca en un estudio de I+D+i orientado al conocimiento de la potencialidad de las fibras de papel recuperadas, en colaboración con la papelera Alier (Rosselló, Lleida). Se ha conseguido mejorar la gestión de la selección, compra y utilización de la materia prima, ya que establece una caracterización que las agrupa para conseguir el máximo rendimiento en fibra y mejores propiedades del producto final, con el consiguiente beneficio medioambiental de minimizar el residuo que va a vertedero Objectius de Desenvolupament Sostenible::15 - Vida d'Ecosistemes Terrestres Objectius de Desenvolupament Sostenible::12 - Producció i Consum Responsables Objectius de Desenvolupament Sostenible::13 - Acció per al Clima
- Published
- 2022
50. Sustainable Alternatives for Tertiary Treatment of Pulp and Paper Wastewater
- Author
-
Matia Mainardis, Silvia Mulloni, Arianna Catenacci, Maila Danielis, Erika Furlani, Stefano Maschio, and Daniele Goi
- Subjects
filtration ,tertiary treatment ,adsorption ,wastewater treatment ,wastewater reuse ,chemicals ,circular economy ,economic assessment ,pulp and paper industry ,Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment ,Geography, Planning and Development ,Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law - Abstract
In this work, different alternatives to conventional tertiary treatment of pulp and paper (P&P) wastewater (WW), i.e., physicochemical coagulation-flocculation, were investigated to enhance the environmental and economic sustainability of industrial wastewater treatment. In particular, following a preliminary characterization of secondary effluents, cloth filtration and adsorption were studied, the former by pilot-scale tests, while the latter at laboratory scale. An economic analysis was finally accomplished to verify the full-scale applicability of the most promising technologies. Cloth filtration showed excellent total suspended solids (TSS) removal efficiency (mean 81% removal) but a very limited influence on chemical oxygen demand (COD) (mean 10% removal) due to the prevalence of soluble COD on particulate COD. Adsorption, instead, led to a good COD removal efficiency (50% abatement at powdered activated carbon—PAC—dosage of 400 mg/L). The economic analysis proved that adsorption would be convenient only if a local low-cost (100 €/ton) adsorbent supply chain was established. Ultrafiltration was considered as well as a potential alternative: its huge capital cost (19 M€) could be recovered in a relatively short timeframe (pay-back time of 4.7 years) if the ultrafiltrated effluent could be sold to local industries.
- Published
- 2022
Discovery Service for Jio Institute Digital Library
For full access to our library's resources, please sign in.