A life-cycle perspective for analyzing carbon neutrality potential of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics in China

Production, consumption, and disposal of plastics are associated with the generation of a large amount of greenhouse gas (GHG). Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is one of the most widely used plastics, which is mainly produced and consumed by China and causing increasing concerns. The previous studies mainly focused on flows and stocks of PET. Detailed information on GHG emissions for the entire life cycle of PET in China is limited. Particularly, the key paths of emission reduction for life-cycle PET considering carbon neutrality are unknown. In this research, a network analysis system and model of GHG emissions were developed for PET in China and helping explore characteristics of GHG emissions over the three development periods of the PET industry. The results showed that the most potential stage of carbon neutrality for PET was the stage of PET production, accounting for approximately 74.9% over 2000 to 2018. The manufacturing process of PET fibers and bottles would have a major contribution to GHG emissions. At the same time, GHG emissions from the mechanical recovery process should not be ignored. The plastic restriction order for PET and the waste treatment ways of low-carbon would have a significant contribution to emission reduction. According to the results, this study identified the most potential key process of carbon neutrality in the PET life cycle and proposed policies to reduce GHG emissions, which would provide scientific support for the PET industry to achieve the goal of carbon neutrality in China.