Mapping regenerative value network configurations of marine plastics in the global commons

While many companies have made claims regarding regenerative efforts in recent years, analytical frameworks are sparse that clearly demonstrate how claims of regeneration can be differentiated from claims of sustainability. This study proposes the use of Regenerative Value Networks (RVNs) as a theoretical framework to analyze these claims and refine the descriptive approaches to claims of regenerative efforts, particularly for marine plastics in the global commons. In this exploratory study, five cases of new materials generated from marine plastics were analyzed to understand how value networks were constructed and what types of regenerative value were created. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis was used in a comparative analysis across cases. Preliminary data analysis led to the question "But who is paying whom for what?" and a series of value configuration maps were developed to better understand these relationships. Types of value exchanged in the RVNs were categorized as material, social, ecological, and economic, contributing to a more robust theoretical framework for claims of regeneration in business. Further research should include quantitative measures of the regenerative impact of these value networks in the context of the global commons' pollution, the role of certifications in regenerative business claims, and additional types of less tangible value created by RVN activities.