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Plastics Recycling with Tracer-Based-Sorting: Challenges of a Potential Radical Technology

Author

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  • Johannes Gasde

    (Institute for Industrial Ecology (INEC), Pforzheim University of Applied Sciences, Tiefenbronner Str. 65, 75175 Pforzheim, Germany)

  • Jörg Woidasky

    (Institute for Industrial Ecology (INEC), Pforzheim University of Applied Sciences, Tiefenbronner Str. 65, 75175 Pforzheim, Germany)

  • Jochen Moesslein

    (Polysecure GmbH, Sankt-Georgener Str. 19, Geb. 23, 79111 Freiburg, Germany)

  • Claus Lang-Koetz

    (Institute for Industrial Ecology (INEC), Pforzheim University of Applied Sciences, Tiefenbronner Str. 65, 75175 Pforzheim, Germany)

Abstract

To improve the recycling quality of plastics packaging and achieve high recycling rates new identification and sorting technologies are required. Tracer-based-sorting (TBS) is an innovative identification technology based on fluorescent tracers and a corresponding detection unit. TBS can be considered a radical technology change towards a circular economy for plastics and to support sustainability as it has the potential to render several established sorting and/or recycling steps obsolete. This article shows which drivers and barriers are perceived by stakeholders with regard to the implementation of TBS in the market and how challenges are addressed responsibly in the early phases of the innovation process. Influencing external factors and framework conditions of TBS are identified and suitable business models for TBS in a circular economy are discussed. Further, practical recommendations on how to optimize technology and market development for TBS are provided. To obtain these results a mixed method approach of integrated innovation and sustainability analysis, external environment analysis (PESTEL analysis), and business model development approaches was chosen. The research results can be understood as a practical contribution towards a responsible and sustainable implementation of a radical technology-based innovation for a circular economy of plastics.

Suggested Citation

  • Johannes Gasde & Jörg Woidasky & Jochen Moesslein & Claus Lang-Koetz, 2020. "Plastics Recycling with Tracer-Based-Sorting: Challenges of a Potential Radical Technology," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(1), pages 1-16, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:13:y:2020:i:1:p:258-:d:470342
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Domenech, Teresa & Bahn-Walkowiak, Bettina, 2019. "Transition Towards a Resource Efficient Circular Economy in Europe: Policy Lessons From the EU and the Member States," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 155(C), pages 7-19.
    2. Tatiene Coelho & Rosani Castro & Jose Alcides Gobbo Junior, 2012. "PET Containers in Brazil: A Logistics Model for Post-Consumer Waste Recycling," Chapters, in: Enri Damanhuri (ed.), Post-Consumer Waste Recycling and Optimal Production, IntechOpen.
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