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- Christoph Helbig
- University of Bayreuth Ecological Resource Technology Bayreuth Germany
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- Jonas Huether
- Resource and Energy Systems TU Dortmund University Dortmund Germany
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- Charlotte Joachimsthaler
- Resource and Energy Systems TU Dortmund University Dortmund Germany
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- Christian Lehmann
- German Environment Agency Dessau Germany
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- Simone Raatz
- HZDR Helmholtz‐Institut Freiberg für Ressourcentechnologie Freiberg Germany
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- Andrea Thorenz
- Resource Lab University of Augsburg Augsburg Germany
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- Martin Faulstich
- Resource and Energy Systems TU Dortmund University Dortmund Germany
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- Axel Tuma
- Resource Lab University of Augsburg Augsburg Germany
抄録
<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title><jats:p>The term downcycling is often used anecdotally to describe imperfections in recycling. However, it is rarely defined. Here, we identify six meanings of the term downcycling as used in scientific articles and reports. These encompass the material quality of reprocessed materials, target applications, product value, alloying element losses, material systems, and additional primary production. In a proposal for harmonized and more specific terminology, we define downcycling as the phenomenon of quality reduction of materials reprocessed from waste relative to their original quality. We further identify that the reduced quality can express itself thermodynamically, functionally, and economically, covering all perspectives on downcycling. Dilution, contamination, reduced demand for recycled materials, and design‐related issues can cause those downcycling effects. We anticipate that this more precise terminology can help quantify downcycling, keep materials in the loop longer, use materials more often and at higher quality, and therefore assist in reducing material‐related environmental impacts.</jats:p>
収録刊行物
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- Journal of Industrial Ecology
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Journal of Industrial Ecology 26 (4), 1164-1174, 2022-05-19
Wiley