We examine the current regulation of plastics and their associated chemicals at various policy levels — ranging from international to national and regional — by applying qualitative governance analysis. Based on our understanding of the current legal framework for plastic regulation, we develop specific policy recommendations aimed at effectively protecting the environment and human health against plastic pollution. Our research elaborates on comprehensive policy approaches that address the plastic crisis holistically, considering its close interconnection with the climate and biodiversity crises.

Jessica Stubenrauch  reserearchgate

Katherine Heyl  Katherine Heyl

Projects:

Soilprom

The regulatory responses to microplastic are analysed in detail regarding legal and policy-oriented analysis of pollution at national, European Union (EU), and international levels, with a specific focus on South Africa. It provides an overview on the evolution of the legal frameworks governing microplastics, beginning with early non-binding soft law instruments and fragmented sectoral regulations. A qualitative governance analysis is used to examine the current regulatory framework at all political levels. This research highlights holistic policy approaches to effectively tackle the escalating plastic crisis. It explicitly examines the crisis in the context of its close interconnection with climate change and biodiversity loss. 

Dana Kühnel  ORCiD

Mbuyiselwa Shadrack Moloi 

Research team:

Georgia Carratta