Regulating for Sustainability: The Role of EU Plastics Policies in Shaping Green Innovation in the Plastics Industry

Abstract

As the usage of plastics continues to increase and poses environmental consequences, the urgent need for true green solutions is inevitably needed. Regulatory frameworks are often implemented to provide structure and guidance in addressing these challenges adequately. However, their actual influence and effect on solving these through green innovation can differ based on a range of contributing factors that either support or hinder these transitions. This paper therefore intends to explore how current EU plastics policies are shaping green innovation in the plastics industry, examining both the potential, effectiveness, and limitations of current regulatory efforts. These dynamics are primarily explored through insights gathered from three key perspectives: academia, the plastics industry, and the EU government. Based on the findings, it has been revealed that the scope is rather complex as different elements influence the processes both in terms of actors but also levels. Misalignment between these has though shown to be one of the main conflicting points slowing down genuine green transitions. While EU plastic policies seemingly still provide a strong foundation for the drive of sustainable practices in the industry, further improvements are necessary to enhance their clarity, consistency, and overall effectiveness in fostering long-term green innovation and solutions within the plastic industry.