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Blockchain-Based Management of Recyclable Plastic Waste

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  • Katarzyna Bułkowska

    (Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Faculty of Geoengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Sloneczna Str. 45G, 10-709 Olsztyn, Poland)

  • Magdalena Zielińska

    (Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Faculty of Geoengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Sloneczna Str. 45G, 10-709 Olsztyn, Poland)

  • Maciej Bułkowski

    (Caruma Sp. z o.o., Obroncow Tobruku Str. 7, 10-092 Olsztyn, Poland)

Abstract

Effective management of recyclable plastic waste is critical for environmental sustainability and economic viability. Blockchain technology has transformative potential in addressing the challenges of plastic waste management. Currently, the inefficiency of plastic recycling systems results in low recycling rates and significant environmental impacts due to poor sorting, contamination, and limited technology application. However, innovations such as chemical recycling, solvent-based techniques, and biotechnology offer promising advances in the management of plastic waste. Blockchain technology provides a transparent, decentralized ledger that enhances traceability and incentives through smart contracts, decentralized applications (DApps), and digital watermarks. These blockchain solutions can improve waste tracking, automate payments, and reward participants who recycle responsibly. Although significant investment in technology and education is required, integrating blockchain with the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven analytics could revolutionize plastic waste management by creating transparent, efficient, and collaborative recycling ecosystems. Blockchain technology has immense potential to redefine the management of plastic waste and promote a sustainable, circular economy.

Suggested Citation

  • Katarzyna Bułkowska & Magdalena Zielińska & Maciej Bułkowski, 2024. "Blockchain-Based Management of Recyclable Plastic Waste," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(12), pages 1-25, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:17:y:2024:i:12:p:2937-:d:1415145
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Katrien Steenmans & Phillip Taylor & Ine Steenmans, 2021. "Blockchain Technology for Governance of Plastic Waste Management: Where Are We?," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 10(11), pages 1-24, November.
    2. Saman Davari & Meisam Jaberi & Adam Yousfi & Erik Poirier, 2023. "A Traceability Framework to Enable Circularity in the Built Environment," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(10), pages 1-23, May.
    3. Adele Parmentola & Antonella Petrillo & Ilaria Tutore & Fabio De Felice, 2022. "Is blockchain able to enhance environmental sustainability? A systematic review and research agenda from the perspective of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)," Business Strategy and the Environment, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 31(1), pages 194-217, January.
    4. Yu Gong & Shenghao Xie & Deepak Arunachalam & Jiang Duan & Jianli Luo, 2022. "Blockchain‐based recycling and its impact on recycling performance: A network theory perspective," Business Strategy and the Environment, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 31(8), pages 3717-3741, December.
    5. TONINI Davide & GARCIA-GUTIERREZ Pelayo & NESSI Simone, 2021. "Environmental effects of plastic waste recycling," JRC Research Reports JRC122455, Joint Research Centre.
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