From quality to value: linking product and system perspectives in the plastic packaging ecosystem

This study investigates value in the plastic packaging ecosystem. Previously, we identified the quality perceptions of technical actors, such as polymer producers, converters and recyclers. Using semi-structured interviews, we now extend this by focusing on value for broader ecosystem actors which influence and are influenced by technical actors, such as governments, investors, and academics. Two broad themes emerged from the data analysis which combined lead to the notion of value: quality and system performance. Quality is identified at the product level and consists of the nine previously identified categories: purity, uniformity, mechanical properties, physical properties, processability, functionality, regulations & safety, substitutability and circularity. System performance is defined at the system level and consists of four categories: sustainability, technology fit, multi-criteria performance, and market acceptance. While system performance categories are separate concepts, they do interconnect. This new understanding of value facilitates better alignment in the plastic packaging ecosystem and initiatives.