This Collection invites original research on innovative strategies for plastic waste management and upcycling, focusing on polymer degradation, chemical and mechanical recycling, sustainable packaging, and waste-to-energy conversion to support a circular economy.

Collection Overview

Scientific Reports has launched a Guest-Edited Collection on Plastic Processing and Upcycling, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. The global plastic waste crisis poses a significant threat to ecosystems and human health, with mounting challenges in managing the ever-growing volume of plastic materials.

This Collection aims to highlight cutting-edge research in areas in sustainable plastic waste management, focusing on advancements in polymer degradation, chemical and mechanical recycling, and innovative upcycling techniques. By fostering a circular economy, we aim to transform plastic waste into valuable resources through methods such as catalytic upcycling, thermoplastic processing, additive manufacturing, and biodegradable polymer development. Research exploring life cycle assessments and microplastics reduction is also highly
encouraged. This Collection welcomes submissions from all authors, provided manuscripts fall within the scope of the Collection and Scientific Reports more generally.

Deadline for Submissions: 30 September 2026.

Why is this Collection important?

The urgency to address plastic waste through sustainable innovation has never been greater. This Collection seeks to showcase transformative research that tackles the plastic crisis headon, from novel recycling techniques to the development of biodegradable alternatives. We are excited to bring together interdisciplinary insights that advance sustainable materials science and contribute to a circular economy, reducing the environmental footprint of plastics while creating practical, scalable solutions.”

- Dr. Chang Gyun Kim

Why submit to a Collection?

This collection offers you the opportunity to amplify your high-quality research and become a part of global conversation about answering a global issue. Publishing in this collection provides an opportunity of greater visibility and attention as it is aligned with trending global issues. It is led by expert Guest Editors and supported by Springer Nature’s Editorial team to ensure relevance and quality. This Collection Provides a platform to highlight your work on a critical global challenge.

Guest editors

Dr. Bharat Kumar Allam, PhD, Rajiv Gandhi University, India
Dr. Sushmita Banerjee, PhD, Sharda University, India
Dr. Chang Gyun Kim, PhD, Inha University, Korea

How can I submit my paper?

Visit the Collection page to find out more about this collection and submit your article.