Comparison of resources required to manufacture 1000 polystyrene and paper cups

The bar chart illustrates the quantity of various resources required to manufacture 1000 disposable cups made from either polystyrene or paper. Overall, it is evident that paper cup production demands a much higher input of raw materials and energy compared to polystyrene, with the notable exception of steam.

Regarding the production of 1000 paper cups, wood is the most significant resource, requiring 220 kg, followed by 78 kilowatts of electricity and 10 m3 of water. In contrast, the manufacturing of 1000 polystyrene cups uses no wood, only 6 kilowatts of electricity, and a negligible 0.6 m3 of water. Furthermore, paper cups require 18 kg of petroleum and 8 kg of other chemicals, whereas polystyrene cups use 8 kg of petroleum and 13 kg of other chemicals.

The most striking difference is observed in steam consumption. Polystyrene production is highly steam-intensive, requiring 130 kg per 1000 units. Conversely, the steam required for the same number of paper cups is minimal, at just 0.56 kg. In summary, while polystyrene production is heavily reliant on steam, paper cup manufacturing consumes substantially higher amounts of water, electricity, wood, and petroleum.