Plastic ecosystem in the Tampere region
Hautala, Anniina (2025)
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025052114162
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025052114162
Tiivistelmä
The world is facing severe pollution, and material overuse is exceeding planetary limits. A shift to a circular economy is needed to reduce reliance on fossil based plastics. Finland needs to improve its plastic recycling to match the targets set by the European Union. The Tampere Region, which is the second largest area in Finland in terms of economy and population, could play a significant role. This research examines the plastic ecosystem in the Tampere Region.
The research data was gathered through semi-structured qualitative interviews held with six different plastic ecosystem actors in the Tampere Region. The interviewees represented different categories of actors across the ecosystem. Their responses were anonymized, and the data was analyzed using qualitative content analysis.
The results showed that the plastic ecosystem in the Tampere Region has a wide range of different actors, and there is a good network coverage for research and innovations, and the plastic value chain. The small market size, long distances, inconsistent quality of recycled plastic, and separation of plastic from mixed waste are seen as key obstacles. Finding ways for the ecosystem actors to connect, familiarize, and find solutions and the expertise for their needs are needed for a cohesive ecosystem.
The research findings suggest that the region should capitalize on upcoming opportunities by promoting innovations and involving all actors in a viable, needs-based plastic ecosystem. Forums built for fostering collaboration and information sharing and networking events could be the key.
The research data was gathered through semi-structured qualitative interviews held with six different plastic ecosystem actors in the Tampere Region. The interviewees represented different categories of actors across the ecosystem. Their responses were anonymized, and the data was analyzed using qualitative content analysis.
The results showed that the plastic ecosystem in the Tampere Region has a wide range of different actors, and there is a good network coverage for research and innovations, and the plastic value chain. The small market size, long distances, inconsistent quality of recycled plastic, and separation of plastic from mixed waste are seen as key obstacles. Finding ways for the ecosystem actors to connect, familiarize, and find solutions and the expertise for their needs are needed for a cohesive ecosystem.
The research findings suggest that the region should capitalize on upcoming opportunities by promoting innovations and involving all actors in a viable, needs-based plastic ecosystem. Forums built for fostering collaboration and information sharing and networking events could be the key.