Assessing quality adoption for recycled plastics in Australia: Industry insights and policy gaps, an exploratory survey

The increasing demand for circular economy solutions in plastic waste management has emphasised the need for quality assurance and traceability in recycling systems. However, the extent to which businesses adopt and prioritise these factors remains unclear, particularly in the Australian context. This study examines how businesses in the Australian plastic recycling sector perceive and implement quality control practices. It aims to identify key barriers and enablers influencing the adoption and assess the role of these elements in promoting circularity. A national, ethically approved survey was conducted among 65 Australian businesses involved in the plastics value chain. Respondents were segmented based on company size and the presence or absence of a CE strategy. The study’s analytical model was statistically validated using t-tests and effect-size analyses to ensure internal consistency. Companies with a CE strategy emphasise quality control, certification standards, and traceability more than those without. The most cited barriers to quality adoption include cost, market demand, and regulatory gaps, while traceability systems remain underutilised despite their recognised importance. Due to resource constraints, small and medium-sized enterprises report greater difficulties in adopting standardised quality practices. The study highlights a critical gap in integrating traceability and quality assurance into Australian recycling systems. By combining a validated analytical model with authenticated survey data, the study provides reliable evidence that regulatory enforcement, financial incentives, and harmonised standards are essential to improve material reliability and advance circular economy outcomes in Australia.