Environmental Impacts of Wood Pallets: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This work had analyzed the contribution of scientific studies developed in regard to the environmental impacts of using wood pallets. This analysis utilized a systematic review from the available literature found on four important databases: Scielo, Science Direct, Web of Knowledge and CAPES. There is still not a representative number of studies performed concerning the environmental impacts of wood pallets and only 5 countries stand out as key players: USA, Italy, India, Iran and the Netherlands. It was demonstrated that there exist prospects which could be applied to mitigate the environment and cost impacts of wood pallets, regarding alternative materials, logistical strategies and practices of maintenance, re-use and recycling.