A Systemic Approach to Innovation in Bioplastics: A Cross-Analysis of Technological and Socioeconomic Dynamics
In response to the urgency of the plastic pollution crisis, innovative solutions are essential. Bioplastics are among the leading alternatives, yet the field remains characterized by confusion, controversy, and the risk of greenwashing. Despite scientific advances that are frequently reported in the media, it remains difficult to precisely assess the current state of innovation trends. To bring a new and systemic perspective, we propose to analyze the bioplastics sector using the Technological Innovation Systems (TIS) framework, structured around six key functions: entrepreneurial activities, knowledge production and diffusion, guidance, market formation, resource mobilization, and legitimacy creation. By combining heterogeneous data sources (patents, scientific publications, funding, market data, societal perception), our analysis aims to provide a cross-sectional view of the sector and address two central questions: what is the current state of innovative development in the field of bioplastics? What are the technological, economic, political, and societal drivers and barriers shaping this trajectory?