Study on the Optimal Method of Eco-Friendly Recycling through the Comparative Analysis of the Quantitative Calculation and Scope of Recycling

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to present an efficient emission reduction ratio of plastic to reduce carbon dioxide, the main cause of greenhouse gases. Research design, data and methodology: This study calculated the absolute value of carbon dioxide by setting an equation through the emission coefficient using the US EPA's WARM model. Results: In the recycling ratio of 70%, it was found that the energy recovery ratio was 15.6%, which was the energy recovery ratio without generating carbon dioxide. When carbon dioxide is generated by changing plastic waste emissions, optimal efficiency is achieved by reducing emissions by 10% to 30% of energy recovery ratio, 20% to 50% of energy recovery ratio, and 30% to 80% or more of energy recovery ratio. Conclusions: The recycling rate should be set at a minimum of 70%, so that a carbon dioxide-free energy recovery rate could be obtained during the recycling process, supporting an eco-friendly basis for environmental policies aimed at this rate. In addition, it was possible to suggest that it is essential to reduce emissions by at least 30% for eco-friendly recycling measures that can achieve both economic and environmental feasibility in the energy recovery process through incineration during recycling in Korea.