Carbon emissions analysis of the pulp molding industry: a comparison of dry-press and wet-press production processes

Abstract An initial carbon emission calculation formula for the pulp molding industry was first proposed in accordance with the calculation guidelines provided by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The formula was primarily developed by utilizing the greenhouse gas accounting methods used in the pulp and paper industry and the life cycle assessment (LCA) theory. Carbon dioxide emissions coming into being during the production processes of dry-press and wet-press pulp molding were calculated individually, alongside the carbon emission factors throughout the lifecycle of the products. This study also delivers a comparative analysis of pulp molding products and similar cushion packaging materials. Moreover, the findings reveal that during the production phase, particularly in the formative stages of pulp molding, substantial carbon dioxide emissions would be produced, with dry-press pulp molding products exhibiting markedly higher carbon emission factors than their wet-press counterparts. The primary objective of achieving low-carbon transformation for the pulp molding industry was to reduce the carbon emissions caused by the forming process, primarily by improving the forming process and enhancing energy efficiency or utilizing clean energy.