Plastic packaging in the circular economy

Plastic waste in the natural environment is a global concern, leading to calls for the
adoption of a circular economy for plastics. Whilst attempts to achieve this have
primarily focused on recycling, the work presented in this thesis asks: ‘What is
required to make reusable packaging systems mainstream?’ for consumer goods,
and ‘Is going packaging-free the answer to the plastics waste problem?’ for fruit
and vegetables.
First, an online survey was used to investigate the factors that influence what people
are willing to reuse, and an LCA was conducted on different food takeaway options.
Building on this, behavioural analysis, environmental assessment and materials
technology were integrated to assess the viability of a real-world returnable
takeaway bowl system. Using yogurt as a case study, semi-structured interviews
were then analysed to examine the socio-technical transition from single-use to
return systems. Finally, progress in the removal of single-use packaging from fruit
and vegetables was investigated, alongside an analysis of plastic packaging and
food waste policies.
Key findings are:
1) Container and system design, customer acceptance of wear, and the return rate
of the containers all affect the viability of a returnable packaging system. 2) Plastic
is a good material choice for reuse as it is lightweight and inexpensive, although
further work to understand contamination and the generation of microplastics is
recommended. 3) The transition from single-use to reuse is currently at a standstill;
cost and convenience are key. 4) A tension exists between plastic and food waste
policies, with food waste policies taking precedence. 5) Going packaging-free is
only part of a wider solution for plastic packaging waste from fresh produce.
Finally, legislation will drive change, however any future initiatives to reduce
single-use plastic packaging should be implemented using an evidence-based
approach to ensure progress on other sustainability goals is not compromised.