Circularity Assessment of Baseball Bats

Abstract

This study investigates the circularity of baseball bats, with a particular focus on those manufactured by L-tec Sport Oy, situated at Raudoittajantie 6 Porvoo. Against the backdrop of a global shift towards sustainable practices, the circular economy stands as a promising framework to address the linear trajectory of material consumption and waste generation in traditional business models. L-tec Sport Oy specializes in fiber-reinforced baseball bats crafted from composite materials, a sector notorious for contributing to landfill waste. The research employs the Circular Transition Indicators (CTI) tool, developed by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), to assess the circularity of these bats. The methodology, informed by an extensive literature review, revolves around key indicators, including % circular inflow, % circular outflow, % renewable energy, and % recovery potential. Delving into the study's boundaries, it hones in on the product-level assessment of a single baseball bat's lifecycle, considering factors such as timeframes and material inclusions and exclusions. The manufacturing process, encompassing raw material inputs, production procedures, and final outputs, is meticulously examined. Chosen indicators align with the unique characteristics of baseball bat production, ensuring a nuanced evaluation. Results indicate a current circularity level of 26.25%, revealing substantial scope for improvement. Recommendations include the adoption of bio based resin, the use of non-virgin end caps, and the initiation of a bat retrieval program. Scenario simulations underscore the potential for achieving a circularity level of 56.26%, emphasizing the economic and environmental advantages associated with heightened circularity. In conclusion, this study not only sheds light on the circularity of baseball bats within the broader context of the circular economy but also provides actionable recommendations for Ltec Sport Oy to enhance sustainability practices in the sports equipment industry.