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Enhanced plastic economy: a perspective and a call for international action
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This perspective argues that the current plastic circular economy is too narrowly focused on recycling, reuse, and energy recovery, and calls for an enhanced framework that prioritizes innovation and coordinated international action to reduce plastic pollution. A broader approach targeting all lifecycle stages is proposed.
The current plastic circular economy lacks a uniform framework. It overfocuses on recycling, reuse and energy recovery. An enhanced plastic economy drives innovation and concerted effort in reducing plastic pollution and waste management.
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System innovation and life cycle thinking in packaging value chain: the circularity of plastics.
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This paper examines the role of circular economy principles in reducing plastic packaging waste, noting that despite existing recycling systems, plastics remain pervasive environmental contaminants. The authors argue that redesigning packaging systems for recyclability and reducing over-packaging are essential steps to address microplastic pollution at its source.
The need for a global plastic strategy
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This perspective article argued that the scale of global plastic pollution — with 8,300 million metric tons produced and 79% accumulated in landfills or the environment — requires a coordinated global plastic strategy rather than piecemeal national measures. The author calls for international policy frameworks comparable to those addressing climate change and ozone depletion.
Plastic circularity: Challenges, opportunities, and future pathways
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This review examines the barriers to a circular plastic economy, concluding that mechanical recycling alone is insufficient and nearing its technical limits, while advanced methods such as chemical depolymerization and dissolution recycling face high costs and market underdevelopment, requiring coordinated regulatory, design, and infrastructure changes to close the recycling gap.
Tackling Marine Plastic Pollution Through Source-To-Sea Approach and Circular Economy
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This paper reviews the global problem of marine plastic pollution through a source-to-sea lens and proposes circular economy principles as a path toward solutions. It discusses policy instruments, extended producer responsibility, and international cooperation needed to address marine plastic litter.
Circular economy measures to keep plastics and their value in the economy, avoid waste and reduce marine litter
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This review argues that circular economy measures — including improved collection, reuse, recycling, and design for end-of-life — are necessary to keep plastic value in the economy while reducing the estimated 5-15 million tonnes of plastic entering oceans annually. Researchers present a framework of policy and industry measures to transition away from the current linear 'make-use-dispose' model that drives marine litter accumulation.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.