Pallet life cycle comparison using LCA and multiobjective dynamic programming

Treatment of wooden pallets has been increasingly viewed with concern over reports of infestation by pests and increased carbon footprint of treatment methods worldwide. The longevity and not requiring infestation treatments make plastic pallets an apparent choice over wooden pallets; however, the high carbon footprint generated during the manufacture of plastic resin worsens environmental concerns. While comparing environmental impacts of existing treatment methods, this research analyzes the environmental burdens and costs of wooden and plastic type pallets throughout their life cycles. The methodology comprises of a comparison of treatment and pallet types using Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) and a multiobjective dynamic programming to determine optimum pallet types that minimize both carbon footprint and costs in each life cycle stage. Multi-objective dynamic programming helps to optimize decisions at various stages of the product life cycle.