Assessing the Environmental Impact of a Primary Packaging Machine for tobacco products through Life Cycle Assessment

The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive account of the application of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodologies to a packaging line manufactured by IMA Tobacco. LCA, in essence, offers a “quantitative approach to evaluating the environmental ramifications of a product or service throughout its entire life cycle”, highlighting phases such as development, utilization, and ultimate disposal. This paper not only elucidates the practical application of LCA methodologies to the packaging machine but also demonstrates the development and utilization of an assessment tool created using OpenLCA software. This tool was developed during an internship at Schneider Electric. The packaging machine in question provides the primary packaging for products as IQOS and cigarettes. Given its usage by industry giants such as Philip Morris, Japan Tobacco International, and British American Tobacco, entities that dominate this product segment, its significance in terms of environmental impact cannot be overstated. This significance is magnified when associated with the tobacco industry's current struggles in gaining social and environmental credibility. This necessitates a shift toward sustainability in both social and environmental dimensions for firms operating in this sector. This study aims to investigate the environmental potential of the specific machine and its relevance. Additionally, this paper serves as a means of disclosure for Schneider Electric and IMA customers.