An economic model for food packaging waste management with a sustainable development approach

Today, food packaging waste management is a challenge on a global scale that has faced many economic constraints in developing countries. If this waste is not managed properly, it will have irreparable consequences on the quality of the environment and human health. The purpose of this paper is to select sustainable scenarios for packaging waste management based on product design. Material and

In this research, by simulating a mathematical model, the costs of waste management scenarios and at the same time the detrimental effects on environmental quality and human health have been minimized. The proposed model, which can be used in various industries, has been implemented using binary genetic optimization algorithm, taking into account the design details, life cycle analysis and end-of-life options (in the form of 9 management scenarios).

In general, estimating the optimal solution of the proposed model in each product group, shows the winning scenario appropriate to the optimal design alternative, which is an economic option with the least destructive effects on the environment and human health. The results of model implementation for a real example show in seven product groups defined four scenarios (25% source reduction, 25% recycling and 45% incineration and only 5% landfill) and scenario five (source reduction by 60% and incineration of 30% of waste and 10% landfill) are the winning options for optimal designs in most product groups. Discussion and

The simulated model helps manufacturers to have a proper estimate of the environmental and economic consequences of the designed product. This research also enables decision makers and policy makers to achieve the goals of sustainable development, by legislating more manufacturers to accept responsibility for end-of-life management of their products as well as municipalities to set up a network. Encourage urban waste management systems.