Disposable cups are made from coated paper or poly(styrene). The table below shows information on the life cycle assessments (LCAs) of disposable cups. Evaluate the use of coated paper compared with poly(styrene) to make disposable cups. Use the table above and your knowledge and understanding of LCAs. – 6190

One thought on “Disposable cups are made from coated paper or poly(styrene). The table below shows information on the life cycle assessments (LCAs) of disposable cups. Evaluate the use of coated paper compared with poly(styrene) to make disposable cups. Use the table above and your knowledge and understanding of LCAs. – 6190”

1. Raw materials:
   Paper is made from wood, which is renewable, but it can cause deforestation.
   Polystyrene is made from crude oil, which is finite and will run out.
   Manufacturing:
   Both need a lot of energy, but paper uses more, which can cause more pollution and release more CO₂.
   Paper also uses more water and is heavier to transport, so needs more energy.
   Packaging is similar for both.
   Usage:
   Both are single-use, so neither has an advantage here.
   Disposal:
   Paper can decompose and release energy if burned.
   Polystyrene doesn’t break down, can release toxins when burned, but it can be reused to make new products.
   Both can cause litter and pollution.

   Reply