Expansion of the Swedish Deposit Return System for plastic packaging : Challenges and enablers along the value chain of plastics

Abstract: Plastic materials are widely used in different applications by the industry. Given its different properties, there is a wide range of utilization opportunities. From an environmental perspective, some of these properties imply a challenge for the recycling of these materials. Over the years, Deposit Return Systems (DRS) have been formulated and developed aiming to increase recycling rates of these materials. This study aims to determine if the expansion of the DRS for plastic materials can tackle current technical and logistical challenges that hinder the recyclability of these materials in Sweden. Specifically, it maps the actors and processes involved in the plastic value chain, identifying current challenges that affect the recyclability of the materials but also opportunities to increase the rates of recycling. Finally, after studying and characterizing different DRS implemented around the world, recommendations are given on what types of DRS expansions could be suitable for the Swedish context.  Based on a literature review the current Swedish plastic value chain is studied and technical and logistical challenges are identified along it. Simultaneously the study investigates technological developments and innovations intended to improve the recyclability of the plastic materials. One of the main challenges identified is the fragmentation along the value chain, which is a barrier to utilizing the system to its full potential in terms of generating recyclable material as well as establishing well-functioning value regeneration of the materials. This information is useful to discussions on a future expansion of the DRS in Sweden.  Likewise, after describing the different DRS options studied, recommendations are given for its implementation. The analysis concludes that given the current context that includes the start-up of a large sorting facility, the most promising option would be to opt for a design & sorting incentivizing DRS that is relying on the conventional waste management and does not require major investments in infrastructure. Other options are not discarded, but it is recognized that these may be more costly or more technologically demanding, also requiring more research to give an assertive assessment.