Unlocking the economic potential of recycling waste fishing nets for textile reproduction

Pei-Chiun Li, Fu-Wei Tsao, Hsiu-Ching Shih, Hwong-wen Ma and Nai-Hua Hou

Ecological Economics, 2026, vol. 239, issue C

Abstract: This study presents an innovative framework that integrates Input-Output (IO) analysis with disposal strategies to assess the economic and environmental impacts of recycling waste fishing nets, a significant yet underexplored source of marine plastic pollution. Applying this approach to Taiwan, we examine the effectiveness of incineration taxes as a policy tool to incentivize recycling and explore the role of product innovation in enhancing material recovery. Our findings show that incineration taxes significantly increase the recycling rate and generate short-term economic benefits within the recycling industry, while product innovation improves material regeneration efficiency, ensuring long-term economic sustainability. The results underscore the need for an integrated policy approach that balances immediate regulatory interventions with long-term industrial transformation. Policymakers should leverage incineration taxes to stimulate short-term recycling efforts while promoting product innovation to strengthen the market for recycled materials. Aligning fiscal policies with technological advancements is essential for developing a resilient waste fishing net recycling system that maximizes both environmental and economic benefits.

Keywords: Circular economy; Waste fishing nets; Input-output analysis; Incineration; Recycling (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:ecolec:v:239:y:2026:i:c:s0921800925002356

DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolecon.2025.108752

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