Sci256 V8 Environmental Impact Research Matrix Page 2 ✓ Solved

Sci256 V8environmental Impact Research Matrixsci256 V8page 2 Of

Analyzing the life cycle of a product is one of the best ways to understand the impact of our consumption on the environment. In this assignment, you will research the series of steps that it takes to deliver a common product to the public and consider how consumers’ choices and behavior can contribute to or diminish environmental sustainability. Select one of the following products: car, new cell phone, plastic grocery bags, food of your choice, a new 3-bedroom home, an online purchase of your choice, or another product of your choice with faculty approval. Research the life cycle of your selected product using the internet, textbook, University Library, or other resources.

Analyze the environmental impact of the purchase or usage of the product you selected by completing the matrix below. Answer each question in the matrix with a 1- to 2-sentence response. Be sure to provide references for the sources you use. A partial example has been provided for you.

Matrix Name of Product/Process: __________________________________________________

1. How is the product/process obtained or created? What raw materials are required?

2. How is the product processed or implemented?

3. How is the product delivered or transported to you?

4. How is the product disposed of?

5. What kind of waste is generated? How can it be recycled?

6. List any other observations or insights pertaining to the environmental impact of the product.

Paper For Above Instructions

Name of Product/Process: Plastic Grocery Bags

1. How is the product/process obtained or created? What raw materials are required?

Plastic grocery bags are primarily made from low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which are derived from petroleum. The raw materials for these plastics are sourced from crude oil, necessitating extensive drilling and refining processes that have significant environmental impacts, including habitat disruption and greenhouse gas emissions (Thompson et al., 2009).

2. How is the product processed or implemented?

The production of plastic grocery bags involves polymerization, where monomers are chemically combined to form plastic. This process requires considerable energy and results in emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can negatively affect air quality (Lebreton et al., 2017).

3. How is the product delivered or transported to you?

Plastic bags are typically transported via trucks from manufacturing plants to retail locations. The transportation contributes to carbon emissions due to fossil fuel consumption, impacting overall environmental sustainability (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2016).

4. How is the product disposed of?

After use, plastic grocery bags are often discarded in landfills, where they can take hundreds of years to decompose. Inadequately disposed bags frequently end up in oceans and water bodies, leading to severe ecological harm (Andrady, 2011).

5. What kind of waste is generated? How can it be recycled?

The primary waste generated from plastic grocery bags is non-biodegradable refuse that can harm wildlife and pollute waterways. While these bags can theoretically be recycled into new plastic products, actual recycling rates are low due to contamination and inadequate recycling facilities for plastics (Hopewell et al., 2009).

6. List any other observations or insights pertaining to the environmental impact of the product.

The environmental impact of plastic grocery bags extends beyond their production and disposal. They contribute to marine pollution, threaten marine life, and result in the death of numerous animals who mistake them for food. Moreover, the microplastics generated from the degradation of shop-bought bags further pollute ecosystems (Moore, 2008). The increased public awareness and legislation banning plastic bags illustrate a growing recognition of their environmental issues, encouraging a shift toward reusable bags.

References

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