# Reflections on bio-based PET and plastic waste management: a responsible research and innovation approach

## TL;DR

This paper discusses the potential and challenges of using bio-based methods to break down plastics, considering societal, ethical, and regulatory issues.

## Contribution

The paper provides insights into the Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) implications of bio-based plastic degradation through stakeholder and public engagement.

## Key findings

- There is broad support for bio-based plastic degradation but concerns about scalability and integration with existing recycling.
- Governance and containment of genetically modified organisms are key challenges in this field.
- Regulation and economic incentives are seen as crucial for the adoption of bio-based approaches.

## Abstract

Plastics drive twin crises: persistent pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Bio-based approaches using enzymes and microorganisms to depolymerise plastics and valorise monomers show promise but raise societal, ethical and regulatory questions central to Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI). In this Perspective, we reflect on RRI implications of bio-based plastic degradation, informed by stakeholder discussions across the plastics value chain and public engagement. We identify broad support alongside concerns about scalability, interaction with existing recycling, governance and containment of genetically modified organisms, management of additives and contaminants, and the roles of regulation and economic incentives in enabling adoption.

Bio-based approaches to plastic degradation have been an intense area of research in recent years, and although they show great promise, they also raise societal, ethical and regulatory questions. Here the authors reflect on the Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) implications of this growing field, sharing insights they have gained through engagement with stakeholders and the broader public.