Optimizing chemical recycling business models through stakeholder engagement

: assessment of challenges and success factors in the European chemical industry

Abstract

The management of plastic waste represents a heavily discussed sustainability issue. About one third of post-consumer plastic waste is recycled in the EU, with the remainder split evenly between energy recovery and landfill. As an upstream player in the industrial plastics value chain, the chemical industry plays a key role in the transition to a circular economy through its research into recycling processes. In tandem with conventional recycling methods, a collection of new technologies under the umbrella term “chemical recycling” is expected to broaden the spectrum of plastic polymers eligible for inclusion in the recycling loop. By applying a qualitative-empirical research methodology, involving 17 semi-structured interviews, this study contributes to the existing scholarly discourse. First, it explores the motivations behind engaging in chemical recycling. Second, the study addresses the challenges and success factors of implementing chemical recycling business models (CRBMs), focusing on stakeholder-specific and cross-stakeholder engagement. The findings underscore the importance of stakeholder engagement in implementing and managing CRBMs, taking a closer look into relationships with policymakers, suppliers, customers, NGOs, and technology certification bodies. Theoretical and managerial contributions include participation in multi-stakeholder platforms such as associations to facilitate cross-stakeholder collaboration to jointly educate society on chemical recycling to gain broader acceptance as well as stakeholder-specific engagement practices. Ultimately, the study contributes to bridging the gap between academic research and industry practice, providing insights into the complex landscape of CR and stakeholder engagement in the European chemical industry.

Date of Award	28 Jun 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Filipa Andrêa Godinho de Lancastre Serpa Pinto (Supervisor)