Work

Unpacking lock-ins in transition pathways: Lessons from the Dutch circular plastic packaging mission

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Societal mission-oriented policies are shaped by the socio-technical systems in which they are embedded, yet their openness to multiple transition pathways, particularly when a dominant one exists, is underexplored. This study addresses this gap through a qualitative case study of the circular plastic packaging mission in the Netherlands. We analyse the interaction between the mission and socio-technical system dynamics across three pathways: recycling (the locked-in pathway), and reuse and refuse (emerging pathways in the circular transition). Our findings identify three types of lock-ins (infrastructure and technology, institutional, and behavioural) that strongly favour recycling as a dominant pathway in the circular transition, persisting also after the mission's introduction. We contribute to the transitions literature by showing that mission policies can gradually reshape institutions and reduce lock-ins. However, it also underscores the necessity of active mission governance to promote and activate less dominant pathways that align with societal goals.

Source: Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions

DOI: 10.1016/j.eist.2025.101075

Authors: S.A.M.J.V. Bours, I. Wanzenböck, V.S.C. Tunn, M.P. Hekkert

Institutions: Utrecht University, Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency

Language: English

Topic: Sustainability and Climate Change Governance

Subfield: Global and Planetary Change

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities, Climate action

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,610