EP (eutrophication)

Impact category in a life cycle study that quantifies undesirable nutrient enrichment in water bodies using phosphate equivalent.

Definition & Measurement

SUT vs. MUT

Classification in the Life Cycle Study

01 Definition & Measurement

Eutrophication is one of the impact categories in a life cycle assessment. This indicator quantifies the undesirable increase in nutrients in a body of water during the product process, measured using phosphate equivalents (PO4 eq.). This increase in nutrients is undesirable because it promotes pointless and harmful plant growth.

02 SUT vs. MUT

In a life cycle study in the context of process and filling technology, it was found that the impact on eutrophication of Single Use Technology (SUT) – such as containment packaging materials – is around 93% lower than that of Multi Use Technology (MUT).

03 Classification in the Life Cycle Study

Eutrophication is one of several impact categories in a life cycle study. Other categories are global warming potential (TP), acidification potential (VP), abiotic resource depletion (AR) and water footprint. The reduction of CIP processes through SUT is the main reason for the significantly lower EP value.

All terms

Contact us – we’ll be happy to advise you

Talk to our experts about your specific requirements for

containment systems and primary packaging.

Enquire now

+49 6322 7980