EU Policy Impact on EEE Sector’s Circular Plastics Uptake

As part of their INCREACE research focusing on the impact of changes in EEE (Electrical and Electronic Equipment) rules and regulations on recycling, the research team consisting of David Pfeffer, Denise Reike and Catharina Bening from ETH Zurich (SusTec) will be presenting a first paper draft at the International Sustainability Transitions (ITS) Conference 2023 in Utrecht, the Netherlands. The research, titled “Circular Plastics: Analysing the interdependencies between the EU policy mix and uptake of recycled plastics in the EEE sector”, examines the complex interplay between policy initiatives that foster or hinder recycling efforts.

Navigating Policy Mixes

Policy mix is a term used in social and political sciences that stands for a combination of different types of policies aimed at one overarching target. In the context of INCREACE, the focus is on policy mixes specifically intended to enhance plastics recycling within the EEE sector. These policy mixes include both binding measures – such as the EU regulation on ‘Persistent Organic Pollutants’, the ‘WEEE Directive’, and national legislation – and non-binding measures such as the EU Circular Economy Action Plan and the EU Plastics Strategy.

David, Denise and Catharina examine these binding and non-binding measures from a new perspective by studying the responsibilities that the policy mix places on different business players in the EEE value chain. In a later stage of the study, they will look at the ‘3Cs’ – consistency, coherence, and comprehensiveness –  to determine whether existing and planned EU policies promote or hinder EEE plastics recycling.

How can you get involved?

You would like to know more? Do you have questions on EEE policies? Or do you have knowledge about EEE and could contribute insights? We cordially invite you to meet and discuss with the authors during or after the IST Conference, which will take place on 29 August to 1 September. You can arrange a meeting with us in Utrecht at the Conference or near the Conference venue (e.g. close to Utrecht Central Station). We are also happy to engage in an online discussion or at a later date. Your active participation and input would greatly enrich the discourse surrounding this ground-breaking research. We look forward to the opportunity to engage with each other!