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Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research

Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research

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The Importance of Dynamic MFA in Supporting Circularity: A case Study of PVC in Pakistan

The article discusses the importance of dynamic Material Flow Analysis (MFA) in supporting plastic circularity, focusing on the PVC industry in Pakistan. Despite the widespread use of plastic globally, most plastic waste accumulates in the environment, emphasizing the need for effective waste management strategies. The study utilizes dynamic MFA to analyze PVC’s inow, outow, and societal stocks, providing insights into material metabolism and mass balance. It reveals that a significant portion of PVC consumed represents societal stock rather than immediate waste, highlighting the necessity of considering historical stocks for accurate waste management planning. The article recommends developing polymer-specific databases, conducting more material flow analyses, educating consumers, standardizing data collection, and improving recovery and recycling practices to enhance plastic circularity. The case studies on shoe and flooring industries underscore the importance of innovative recycling technologies. Overall, embracing dynamic MFA and implementing suggested strategies can contribute to a more sustainable and circular approach to plastic usage and waste management in Pakistan.