Single-use plastic take-away food packaging and its alternatives

This report by the Life Cycle Initiative and UNEP highlights the environmental effect of single-use plastic packaging for take-out meals and potential alternatives to replace it. 

The alternatives are analysed through a meta-analysis of six life cycle assessment studies and five additional studies. Different types of plastics (produced from fossil and bio-based resources, virgin or recycled content) and additional materials such as aluminium, paper/cardboard/wood, and glass were utilised for the evaluation. The study took into consideration factors such as single/multi-use, functional differences, weight, packaging material and end-of-life treatment. 

Results indicated that reusable takeout food packaging is better for the environment than single-use packing. Single-use food packaging constructed of PS/XPS and paper-based packaging has superior environmental performance than other options. It emphasised that the food inside the packaging has a higher environmental impact than the packaging itself.

The report also describes the implications for policymakers and influencers working towards reducing the environmental impact of single-use food packaging. 

Read the full report HERE.