Improving the Material and Financial Circularity of the Plastic Packaging Value Chain in The Netherlands: Challenges, Opportunities, and Implications

Abstract

This article outlines a bespoke process for uncovering crucial economic and social considerations in the quest to convert the Dutch plastic packaging system from a linear to a circular economy. Using a serious game tool as part of a qualitative research method, we developed, prioritized, and elaborated on various conceivable and effective policies that would create a circular plastic packaging value chain in The Netherlands. A key aim of this study was to fill a gap in the predominantly technical-focused research in this area by offering a holistic overview of how a circular economy impacts key industry stakeholders and their business models, as well as highlight system-level consequences of these policies, were they to be adopted. We used simulation and statistical analyses to explore the effects of these policies on the material and financial circularity of the Dutch plastic packaging value chain. The results reflect that one of the policies—establishing a center of excellence —would benefit the Dutch plastic packaging system the most.

Valorization of Plastic Wastes for the Development of Adsorbent Designed for the Removal of Emerging Contaminants in Wastewater

“…This can only be done with the help of a potent mix of regulatory policy improvements and improved capacity and innovation in the collecting, sorting, and recycling sectors [119,120]. With the assistance of financial institutions, such as through offering specialized funding programs and public-private cooperation, such an enabling environment may be developed for the widespread adoption of CE [120,121]. Figure 8 illustrates the influence of circularity on waste plastic production and management.…”