Overcoming Barriers to Circular Economy in Plastic Packaging: Enablers and Integrated Strategies in Multinational Companies

Daniela Bustamante, Abraham Londoño-Pineda (), Jose Alejandro Cano () and Stephan Weyers
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Daniela Bustamante: Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Universidad de Medellín, Cra. 87 # 30–65, Medellín 050026, Colombia
Abraham Londoño-Pineda: Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Universidad de Medellín, Cra. 87 # 30–65, Medellín 050026, Colombia
Jose Alejandro Cano: Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Universidad de Medellín, Cra. 87 # 30–65, Medellín 050026, Colombia
Stephan Weyers: Business Studies Department, University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Fachhochschule Dortmund, Emil-Figge-Str. 44, 44227 Dortmund, Germany

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 21, 1-26

Abstract: The transition to a circular economy (CE) in plastic packaging faces persistent barriers, including regulatory fragmentation, technological limitations, and supply chain disconnection. This study examines how multinational companies address these challenges by leveraging enablers such as advanced policies, technological innovation, and cross-sectoral collaboration. Based on a PRISMA-guided systematic review and a descriptive–explanatory case study, semi-structured interviews with senior managers were analyzed through thematic coding and data triangulation. Findings reveal that regulatory measures like virgin plastic taxation and post-consumer recycled material (PCR) incentives are effective only when synchronized with technical capacities. Investments in recycling infrastructure and circular design, such as resin standardization, enhance the quality of secondary materials, while local supply contracts and digital traceability platforms reduce volatility. Nevertheless, negative consumer perceptions and inconsistent PCR quality remain major obstacles. Unlike prior studies that examine barriers and enablers separately, this research develops an integrative framework where their interaction is conceptualized as a systemic and non-linear process. The study contributes to CE theory by reframing barriers as potential drivers of innovation and provides practical strategies, combining policy instruments, Industry 4.0 technologies, and collaborative governance to guide multinational firms in accelerating circular transitions across diverse regulatory contexts.

Keywords: circular economy; enablers; barriers; plastic packaging; integrated strategies; multinational companies (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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