RDE 389 - Barriers and Opportunities for Circularity of Plastics

Circularity applies to all materials and plastic is no exception. The entire lifecycle of plastic should be in scope for action, with consideration going to environmental, social, and economic impacts across the system. It is vital to consider potential trade-offs as well as assessing the timeline for action. This allows space for technological development and innovation whilst ensuring we remain on the path to circularity. Additionally, identification of barriers and opportunities helps to determine where our existing powers can act and where we may need to approach certain challenges differently to drive positive change.  The aim of this project is to identify barriers and opportunities to a circular economy for plastics across their entire lifecycle. This contract was awarded by DEFRA.