MPG decided to conduct an in-depth LCA – Life Cycle Assessment – study on the new Cheese Tray 135 IML packaging entirely composed of fully recyclable copolymer polypropylene. Cheese Tray is a thin-walled rigid packaging designed for use with food, particularly cheese. The rectangular tray of the Cheese Tray, made by injection molding process, is approved for food contact. The top edge is sealable with film.
Thanks to MPG’s special production techniques and choice of materials, Cheese Tray is a product that can transfer its sustainable value downstream by highlighting the commitment, to the environment, of the industry that uses it to package its products and by offering end consumers an environmentally sustainable choice.

Life Cycle Assessment is a method defined according to ISO standards (ISO 14040 and ISO 14044) to quantify the environmental impact of a product, service or process throughout its life cycle, from the production of raw materials and their processing, to distribution, use and final disposal.

The study considered and analyzed these stages of the packaging life cycle:

• Upstream processes: this stage considers the production of the raw materials and packaging used and also takes into account the impacts from the use of electricity and fuels during the production and transportation of raw materials.
• Central processes: this phase covers the production process within MPG Manifattura Plastica. It also includes the treatment of waste generated within the plant and the use of electricity and water.
• Downstream processes: this phase covers the transportation phase calculated over an average distance of the packaged product from the factory to the customer.

 The environmental impact is conventionally calculated in CO₂ equivalent, a measure that represents the climate impact of all greenhouse gas emissions with a single value expressed, precisely in terms of carbon dioxide. Since the various greenhouse gases have different consequences on the greenhouse effect and global warming, CO₂ eq makes it easy to standardize and compare these emissions.

If you are interested in viewing the full LCA report, please send your request to info@mpgplast.it specifying in the subject line “LCA/135”