Not more than the sum of its parts: de-centered norm dynamics and the governance of plastics

This article by Bastian Loges and Anja P. Jakobi from the REPLAWA joint project deals with different norm dynamics and governance forms of plastics.

The prominence of the plastic problem has led to a variety of plastic governance approaches worldwide. Yet, it has not been conclusively clarified which of these are particularly effective and which factors determine the successful regulation of plastics.

This article focuses on whether the different anti-plastic dynamics ultimately lead to effective plastic governance. Based on the theoretical framework of norm research, the researchers work out the properties of anti-plastic norms.

The findings indicate ‘de-centered norm dynamics’. These arise from very different problematizations, values and behaviors linked to plastic, and are thus unlikely to result in a coherent or complementary form of plastics governance.

The article "Not more than the sum of its parts: de-centered norm dynamics and the governance of plastics" [pdf] is available for download on this website.