Unlocking the economic potential of recycling waste fishing nets for textile reproduction
Journal
Ecological Economics
Journal Volume
239
Start Page
108752
ISSN
0921-8009
Date Issued
2026-01
Author(s)
Abstract
This study presents an innovative framework that integrates Input-Output (IO) analysis with disposal strategies to assess the economic and environmental impacts of recycling waste fishing nets, a significant yet underexplored source of marine plastic pollution. Applying this approach to Taiwan, we examine the effectiveness of incineration taxes as a policy tool to incentivize recycling and explore the role of product innovation in enhancing material recovery. Our findings show that incineration taxes significantly increase the recycling rate and generate short-term economic benefits within the recycling industry, while product innovation improves material regeneration efficiency, ensuring long-term economic sustainability. The results underscore the need for an integrated policy approach that balances immediate regulatory interventions with long-term industrial transformation. Policymakers should leverage incineration taxes to stimulate short-term recycling efforts while promoting product innovation to strengthen the market for recycled materials. Aligning fiscal policies with technological advancements is essential for developing a resilient waste fishing net recycling system that maximizes both environmental and economic benefits.
Subjects
Circular economy
Incineration
Input-output analysis
Recycling
Waste fishing nets
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Type
journal article