Analysis of expanded polystyrene life cycle used in food containers in Colombia

Abstract

There are global concerns about depletion of non-renewable resources and waste management. Expanded polystyrene is a material composed of raw materials based on oil and its high volumes of waste generation press on landfills. A systematic review of literature was conducted to establish the state of the art and later identify the environmental impact associated with the expanded polystyrene used in food containers. After analyzing the life cycle of this material with emphasis on the stages developed in Colombia, environmental improvement options were established for the stages in which a significant contribution to pollution was obtained. As a conclusion, promotion of recycling based on cleaner production and circular economy is proposed.


Author biographies

Tatiana Cruz Cuevas
Ingeniera ambiental, Universidad Central. Integrante del semillero de investigación Econciencia.
Correo electrónico: ycruzc@ucentral.edu.co.

Jesús Zaldúa Ramírez
Ingeniero ambiental, Universidad Central. Integrante del semillero de investigación Econciencia.
Correo electrónico: jzalduar@ucentral.edu.co.