Environmental Performance, Carbon Footprint, and Circular Economy Potentialin a Feed Mill in Entre Ríos, Argentina: A Case Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56487/czhgs582Keywords:
Circular economy — Animal feed — Agro-industrial sustainability — Carbon footprint — Regenerative agriculture — Life cycle analysisAbstract
This study comprehensively evaluates the environmental performance and the potential for deepening the circular economy in a feed mill (1000 t/month production) in Entre Ríos, Argentina. The methodology combined quantitative (material/energy flows, partial carbon footprint of scopes 1, 2 and transport of scope 3) and qualitative (conceptual life cycle assessment) analyses, using primary data from the organization (scenario with 50% of own raw materials under regenerative agriculture and 50% external) and secondary sources. The results indicate that the plant already implements key sustainable practices, such as partial regenerative agriculture and total recirculation of process dust. The partial carbon footprint was estimated at ~82.21 t CO₂e/month (82.21 kg CO₂e/ton of product); within this metric, scope 3 total transportation (raw materials and finished product) represents the largest contributor (53.9%), followed by electricity consumption (scope 2; 35.0%). However, it is concluded that the greatest potential impact and uncertainty resides in unquantified external raw material production emissions (land use change risk). Significant opportunities were identified in energy efficiency, waste management, external supply chain sustainability and, strategically, in reformulation with local by-products. The feasibility of deepening the circular economy and regenerative agriculture was confirmed, recommending a full LCA and feasibility studies for improvements.
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