The circular plastics economy and the instruments to implement it

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is the identifi cation and analysis of the multidimensional consequences of implementing the concept of circular plastics economy in reality. The paper presents the concept of plastics and the history of development of the plastics industry. Selected negative environmental consequences of plastics consumption were indicated. This paper shows a rationale behind and key objectives of the Strategy for the plastics in a Circular Economy. It discusses the essence and scope of circular plastics economy. The proposed instruments for implementing the concept of circular plastics economy and the consequences of their application have been characterized in an integrated way. The paper attempts to answer the question whether and to what extent EU actions contribute to solving global environmental problems (oceans pollution, chemicals contaminations of
waters and soils, destruction of ecosystems and landscapes). This paper is based on literature reviews and documents published by the European Commission.