Sustainability is much more than a concept; it is the driving force behind everything we do. A clear example of this is our Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Calculator, developed to evaluate the environmental impact of our foams at all stages of their manufacture and use.
After several years optimising this tool, we are very happy to present the updated version which includes new functionalities, more precise data, the possibility of new types of foam and an even broader focus on the circular economy.
Are you ready to discover what we have changed and why these new features can mark a before and after in your projects?
Why have we updated the LCA Calculator?
We feel a sense of responsibility. And that responsibility leads us to make the most accurate information possible available to our customers and collaborators. Our LCA Calculator has been helping to estimate the environmental footprint of the technical foams we use in each package for some time now.
However, we wanted to take a qualitative leap forward. Now, the tool refines the metrics of each phase of the process and offers alternatives and specific scenarios to adapt your projects to a real circular economy.
The main new features
1. Inclusion of new materials
We have incorporated three new sustainable materials: BIO PT, Papira® and ECO RCL. Why? Because we are convinced that each client deserves to know the exact environmental impact of each alternative and to compare it with traditional materials. With this update, it only takes one click to find out the impact of switching to a lighter foam or opting for recycled components.
2. Option of self-consumption of renewable energy
More and more companies are integrating solar panels or mini wind turbines into their facilities. From today, our tool allows you to simulate energy self-consumption scenarios to see how your carbon footprint changes if, for example, most of the production is powered by clean energy. With real data, you will be able to verify the CO₂ reduction.
3. Improvement in waste management and categorisation
How many times have we believed that all industrial waste is the same? We know that this is not the case. That is why we have updated our algorithms to categorise each type of production waste much more precisely. Understanding whether something is a reusable by-product or hazardous waste is crucial to reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.
4. Renewed emission factors
We work hand in hand with the CIRCE Foundation and use recognised databases —such as Ecoinvent 3.10— to guarantee the quality of our calculations. In this way, we maintain the consistency and rigour of the tool, always following the standards of ISO 14040 and ISO 14044. This translates into more complete and reliable environmental impact reports for our clients.
5. Adaptation to environmental product declarations (EPDs)
For those seeking to certify their products with EPDs, we have facilitated the integration of the data provided by the LCA Calculator. This greatly simplifies the process of obtaining official documentation and submitting reports to certification bodies.
18 Impact categories for a comprehensive overview
Although we often talk about the carbon footprint, it is essential not to ignore other factors. Our LCA Calculator evaluates 18 environmental categories: use of minerals, acidification, climate change, eutrophication and many others. In this way, we avoid the improvement in one environmental impact ending up generating greater damage in another.
What benefits does all this bring?
- More efficient processes: We can identify the stage of the life cycle in which there is high energy consumption and design solutions to reduce it.
- Optimal selection of materials: If you are hesitating between two foams, the tool helps you to see clearly which one reduces the environmental impact more.
- Alternative scenarios: Are you considering changing the transport route or incorporating solar energy into your plant? Our LCA Calculator tells you what these changes mean for your final footprint.
- Integrated eco-design: Designing packaging with reuse and recycling in mind from the outset is easier if you have objective data for each phase.
Sectors benefitting
Our experience covers multiple industries: automotive, food, cosmetics, logistics, electronics and even museums or art galleries, where optimised packaging is crucial to protect valuable pieces. With the comprehensive vision of the LCA Calculator, any company can focus its actions towards sustainability without sacrificing an iota of quality or safety in its products.
How can our LCA Calculator help you?
- It strengthens you commercially: Presenting clear data on your environmental commitment is a confidence-booster for your customers or investors.
- It facilitates your sustainability reports: Including data on emissions, resource consumption and other indicators in corporate reports becomes simple.
- It guides strategic decision-making: Seeing in black and white what happens if you use one material or another is key to choosing the most ecological alternative.
Frequently asked questions
- Do the new foams have higher costs?
Not necessarily. In many cases, the savings in energy, transport or processes more than compensate for the change of material. - Do I need to be an expert to understand the 18 categories?
Not at all. Our team explains each indicator to you and accompanies you so that you can interpret the information in a simple and practical way. - How does self-consumption of energy influence the calculation?
If you generate your own renewable energy, you can see a significant reduction in your carbon footprint. The LCA Calculator accurately reflects this scenario.
Towards more sustainable packaging
With this update, we are taking a firm step towards a future where sustainability is a priority. To facilitate a path towards more responsible packaging without sacrificing quality or profitability.
Would you like to know more? Are you ready to take the step? Let’s talk and make every packaging choice a decision in favour of the planet!
We are convinced that sustainability is a shared journey, and we want to continue walking by your side, joining forces to achieve a greener, more efficient and more conscious future.
