A high-resolution dataset on the plastic material flows in Switzerland

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Materials Science
• Industrial Ecology

Background:

• Switzerland generated significant plastic waste in 2017, necessitating a comprehensive analysis of material flows.
• Understanding plastic consumption and waste streams is crucial for developing sustainable waste management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a detailed material flow analysis of major plastic types used and generated as waste in Switzerland in 2017.
• To map plastic flows across seven application segments and eleven plastic types, including stock changes and recycling.
• To provide data supporting scenario analysis and life cycle assessments for future plastic system design.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive material flow analysis was performed, considering stock changes and all product life cycle stages.
• Data were collected from official statistics, scientific literature, industry reports, and stakeholder communications.
• Flow data were reconciled and visualized using Sankey diagrams at both product-subsegment and plastic-type levels.

Main Results:

• Eleven major plastic types (e.g., HDPE, LDPE, PP, PET) were analyzed across seven application segments, including packaging, construction, automotive, and textiles.
• Detailed material flow data, including post-consumer secondary material application in recycling, were compiled and reconciled.
• Sankey diagrams illustrate plastic flows, providing a clear overview of material movement within the Swiss system.

Conclusions:

• The material flow analysis provides a robust dataset for understanding Swiss plastic dynamics in 2017.
• These data serve as a foundation for scenario modeling and life cycle assessments, aiding in the design of future plastic systems.
• The study highlights the importance of detailed material flow analysis for informed environmental and industrial policy-making.