Evaluación del cierre de ciclo de diversos tipos de empaques de poliestireno comercializados en el Distrito Metropolitano de Quito: evaluación del cierre de ciclo de diversos tipos de empaques de poliestireno comercializados en el Distrito Metropolitano de Quito.

Abstract

The present project aims to analyze and evaluate different alternatives for the management and final disposal of foam in the city of Quito. Expanded polystyrene is used in the packaging and construction industries, which can generate negative environmental impacts if not managed properly. To carry out this research, a thorough review of existing literature on the subject was conducted, as well as an assessment of current environmental policies and regulations in the country. In addition, interviews were conducted with experts on the subject and companies that use expanded polystyrene in their production processes. Based on the results obtained, such as the challenges for proper EPS management related to weight, transportation, recycling compensation, machinery, and infrastructure for the treatment of this material, various alternatives were proposed for the closed-loop management of expanded polystyrene in Quito, such as reuse, recycling, and energy recovery. These alternatives were evaluated based on their technical, economic, and environmental feasibility, and the main challenges and opportunities associated with their implementation were identified Finally, it was concluded that a series of actions need to be taken by the actors in the EPS production chain to mitigate the negative environmental impacts associated with the final disposal of these waste materials. Additionally, the implementation of public policies and promotion of good business practices are recommended to encourage circular economy and sustainable use of resources in the city of Quito.