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Evaluating the Sustainability of Manufacturing: Process and Life Cycle Assessments
Citation:
Smith, R. Evaluating the Sustainability of Manufacturing: Process and Life Cycle Assessments. 6th International Forum on Sustainable Manufacturing, Lexington, KY, December 07 - 08, 2017.
Impact/Purpose:
The Circular Economy is a popular term in environmental studies, but methods are needed to quickly and accurately evaluate recycling opportunities rather than assuming that recycling is appropriate.
Description:
The Circular Economy is a popular term in environmental studies, but methods are needed to quickly and accurately evaluate recycling opportunities rather than assuming that recycling is appropriate. Through the study of recycling processes (i.e., processes that turn wastes into energy and/or valuable materials), one can develop process release profiles. These profiles and associated life cycle inventories provide useful information to decision makers. This presentation reviews research on recycling processes and process release profiles / life cycle inventories.