#80 - SPIRIT Programme and the Future of Circular Plastics

What does it take to build a circular economy for plastics in practice? In this episode of *The Circular Coffee Break*, Jaakko Tuomainen, Sustainability Manager at Borouge International and former leader of Borealis’ SPIRIT programme, shares insights into one of Finland’s most ambitious initiatives to increase plastic waste recycling rates and create high-quality recyclates. Jaakko reflects on the SPIRIT programme’s journey, from its design to its implementation, and the lessons learned along the way. He discusses the importance of collaboration across industries, the role of policy in driving demand for circular products, and the technological advancements that are making circular plastics a reality. With concrete examples from trials with companies like Valio and Froneri, Jaakko highlights how the programme addressed challenges in feedstock innovation, offtake demand, and economic viability. He also explores the future of circular plastics, the remaining barriers to scaling, and why creating viable business cases is the next critical step. **Why listen?** - Understand how the SPIRIT programme aimed to transform Finland’s plastics value chain through collaboration and innovation. - Explore the balance between policy-driven change and bottom-up innovation in circular economy initiatives. - Learn about the technological advancements in mechanical and chemical recycling that are enabling circular plastics. - Discover concrete examples of circular principles in action, from trials with major companies to consumer-facing products. - Gain insights into the economic challenges of scaling circular initiatives and the importance of creating demand for recycled materials. Whether you are a sustainability professional, a business leader, or simply interested in the future of circular economy, Jaakko’s story offers a thoughtful and practical perspective on the opportunities and challenges of building a circular plastics ecosystem.   Read more on the SPIRIT Programme website or in the Final Report. **Keywords:** circular economy, plastics recycling, SPIRIT programme, circular plastics, sustainability, Finland, Borealis, Borouge International, mechanical recycling, chemical recycling, feedstock innovation, offtake demand, policy and regulation, collaboration, circular business models, Jaakko Tuomainen, The Circular Coffee Break * * * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.