Focusing plastic solutions up the waste hierarchy: Pathways for a more circular economy
SUMMARY: Plastic pollution requires urgent global action, including continued Global Plastics Treaty negotiations. A systems change approach is essential, with growing momentum for a plastics circular economy that emphasizes recycling and bio-based plastics derived from vegetable and algae oils. Foc...
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| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Elsevier
2025-09-01
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| Series: | iScience |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589004225014786 |
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| Summary: | SUMMARY: Plastic pollution requires urgent global action, including continued Global Plastics Treaty negotiations. A systems change approach is essential, with growing momentum for a plastics circular economy that emphasizes recycling and bio-based plastics derived from vegetable and algae oils. Focusing on downstream solutions and alternative materials presents three challenges: (1) New materials introduce complexity that complicate waste sorting and management; (2) the potential implications of bio-based plastics not reducing overall demand on single-use packaging consumption; and (3) the lost art of repairing plastic and non-plastic products such as clothing, or electronic devices, which exacerbates waste generation. These challenges can be addressed by reducing plastic consumption; improving product design for better recyclability; incorporating reuse, refill, and redesign systems in current practices; and emphasizing regulatory changes that support a repair culture. Ultimately, we argue that a comprehensive approach is essential to mitigate plastic pollution effectively, requiring collaboration across sectors to drive systemic change. |
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| ISSN: | 2589-0042 |