Enabling framework

Implementation of circular principles in production and consumption systems will yield measurable changes towards reduced consumption of resources and moderated environmental impact. The development and growth of a circular economy requires a framework of enabling factors to be in place, including policy, innovation and financing.

Assessment

• Political and economic momentum for circular economy is building-up in Europe, including growth in financing for circularity projects. The introduction of circular economy strategies at national level is well-advanced across the EU.

• Citation information indicates a strong and growing level of research and innovation activity for circularity. Data is lacking to validate progress on uptake of green public procurement - a key driver for new circular business models.

National circular economy policies

24

EU member states have published national circular economy policy documents by September 2022.

Circular economy lending and financing

€3.4Bn

of lending provided by the European Investment Bank for circular economy projects in 2018-2022.

Scientific articles on circular economy

3,894

articles related to the CE in 2023 .

Circularity in green public procurement

26%

of Belgian public procurement included some considerations for sustainability.

CE requirements in ecodesign product regulation

4-fold

increase in the number of regulations on repair and reuse between 2020 and 2024