A waste generation input output analysis: The case of Spain

• Published in: Journal of cleaner production Vol. 210; pp. 1475 - 1482
• Main Authors: Ruiz-Peñalver, Soraya María, Rodríguez, Mercedes, Camacho, José A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 10-02-2019
• Subjects: Industrial planning; Input-output based hybrid life cycle assessment; Supply chain; Waste; Supply chain; Industrial planning; Input-output based hybrid life cycle assessment; Waste
• ISSN: 0959-6526; 1879-1786
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2018.11.145

In December 2015 the European Commission adopted the Circular Economy Package that includes legislative proposals on waste as well as long-term targets to reduce landfilling and increase recycling and reuse. A detailed and comprehensive accounting of waste arisings forms the quantitative basis for designing adequate policy instruments for a Circular Economy. The aim of this paper is to estimate total waste generation throughout the supply chain in Spain by applying an input-output based hybrid Life Cycle Assessment model. Both the waste generated by direct suppliers and indirect suppliers (that is, suppliers to suppliers) are estimated. The results show that there is high concentrations in total waste generation both in terms of sectors and waste types so the government should concentrate its waste prevention strategy on those sectors and types of waste that have a higher impact on total waste generation.
•Total waste generation throughout the supply chain is estimated.•A high concentration both in terms of sectors and of waste types is found.•Waste prevention strategies should take into account total waste generation.