Kharal_Pawan (1).pdf

The document is a bachelor's thesis titled "Circularity Assessments of Baseball Bats: A Case Study of L-tec Sports Oy. Baseball Bats" by Pawan Kharal, submitted to Arcada University of Applied Sciences in 2023. The study investigates the circularity of baseball bats, focusing on those manufactured by L-tec Sport Oy, using the Circular Transition Indicators (CTI) tool. The research aims to assess the circularity of these bats and provide recommendations for enhancing sustainability practices in the sports equipment industry. The study found a current circularity level of 26.25% with potential improvements to reach a circularity level of 56.26% through the adoption of bio-based resin, non-virgin end caps, and a bat retrieval program.

Passback can take several takeaways from the study on the circularity assessments of baseball bats manufactured by L-tec Sport Oy:

1. Adoption of Bio-Based Materials: The study recommends the use of bio-based resin to increase the circular inflow of the product. Passback can consider using bio-based materials in its products to enhance sustainability and reduce environmental impact.
2. Use of Non-Virgin Materials: Incorporating non-virgin materials, such as ABS plastics for end caps, can further improve the circularity of products. Passback can explore sourcing non-virgin materials for its products to increase circularity and reduce waste.
3. End-of-Life Retrieval Program: Implementing a program to retrieve products from customers at the end of their life cycle can boost circular outflow. Passback can consider developing a retrieval or take-back program to encourage customers to return used products, which can then be recycled or repurposed.
4. Circularity Improvement Potential: The study demonstrates the potential for significant improvement in circularity, from 26.25% to 56.26%, through the adoption of bio-based resin, non-virgin end caps, and a retrieval program. Passback can use this as a benchmark to set goals for improving the circularity of its products.
5. Leadership in Circular Economy Practices: By embracing these recommendations, L-tec Sport Oy can position itself as a leader in circular economy practices. Passback can similarly strive to be a leader in sustainable practices within its industry by adopting circular economy principles and continuously seeking ways to improve the sustainability of its products.

Overall, the study provides valuable insights into how circular economy principles can be applied to improve the sustainability of products, which Passback can leverage in its efforts to promote a more sustainable and circular economy.