Investigation into circular economy of plastics: The case of the UK fast moving consumer goods industry

Despite the recognised importance of the issue of plastic waste and an emerging circular economy (CE) in recent years, there is a lack of comprehensive and relevant studies regarding CE and the role of plastics. This study addresses a significant gap in the literature by revealing current initiatives implemented in the UK fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry through an in-depth exploration of four case organisations that have committed to the UK Plastic Pact, a pioneering collective initiative on plastic recycling. The study discloses a variety of present initiatives within the industry including the removal of unrecyclable plastics, packaging innovation, in-store retailer schemes, and label modifications. Collaboration was concluded as an essential enabler, internally and across the industry. Fundamental barriers were identified as inadequate infrastructure to support plastics in the CE and technical implications of packaging. (C) 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.