Evaluating circularity metrics on industrial lifting equipment

Abstract

The increasing focus on climate change mitigation, resource conservation, and sustainability has placed industrial equipment and activities under scrutiny due to their significant shares of emissions and resource use. Manufacturing industries can address these challenges and ensure current and future regulatory compliance by adopting circular economy strategies and improving products’ end-of-life management. The objective of this study was to evaluate the reusability and recyclability rates of industrial lifting equipment and to assess the feasibility of such metrics for circularity measurement. Qualitative methods were used to conduct a comprehensive literature review and expert interviews to determine the current knowledge base and gaps in circularity and end-of-life management of industrial lifting equipment. A systematic review searched applicable standards and industry guidelines, and quantification methods were developed based on these standards. A case study assessed the calculation methods for circularity metrics reusability and recyclability on an example product. Reusability and recyclability can be quantified with mass-fraction calculations adapted from recyclability rate calculation standards, and this method is applicable for circularity measurement. The results show that more extensive dismantling prior to recycling can improve the functional recycling rate on both material and product level. The value of several high-value parts could be retained via reuse and other value retention processes instead of recycling. Adopting circular economy strategies can reduce waste generation and provide reusable parts for an aftermarket, reducing the need for primary material use. Scarcity of reliable data has a significant impact on the validity of calculation results, and the lack of standardized product-group specific recyclability and reusability assessment guidelines inhibits reliable comparison of products based on these metrics. The findings may expand the existing body of knowledge on circularity potential in industrial lifting equipment and can inform industry stakeholders about potential focal points for improving product recyclability and reusability. By identifying the current challenges and opportunities in product end-of-life management, this research can help guide future innovations in product design and development. Further research is needed to address the economic aspects and business models required for large scale implementation.