Unpacking pathways to a circular economy: A study of packaging innovations in Germany

Abstract

Industry actors are taking a leading role in the design and implementation of a sustainable circular economy for packaging in Germany. However, while the goal is clear the pathway towards this goal remains contested. Using narrative analysis, this study answers the following research question: “What are the transition pathways towards s circular economy for packaging proposed by German industry actors and how transformative is their directionality?”. To do so, the study presents a comprehensive overview of the packaging innovations currently being developed in the German packaging industry as well as an analysis of the transition pathway narratives underpinning these innovations. Additionally, the study offers a discussion of the overlaps, tensions, shortcomings, and potential of these pathways for a sustainable circular economy. The study highlights that packaging industry actors use various forms of discursive legitimacy to enhance their agency and envisioned pathway, however, fail to engage with the variety of alternative visions among them. Additionally, packaging industry actors engage insufficiently with the deep and disruptive changes necessary to achieve a sustainable circular economy. Consequently, new governance arrangements are necessary to make the transition happen.