Missing pieces to a circular economy: closing the loop by reimagining consumption

Circularity is more than a worthwhile business model

Traditional linear models of production based on the idea of take-make-consume-throw away patterns are putting the Earth’s ecosystems under strain, as they buckle under insatiable demand for more natural resources. Moving to a circular economy in Europe is increasingly recognised as necessary to minimise environmental damage but also as a way to foster a resilient economy through innovation and job creation.

Taking place as part of the SSH CENTRE (Social Sciences and Humanities for Climate, Energy and Transport Research Excellence), a Horizon Europe project that aims to accelerate the EU’s transition to carbon neutrality by strengthening social innovation, SSH-STEM collaboration and transdisciplinary policy advice, the event explored the current challenges that hinder a transition to a circular economy.

It’s about a very clear imperative of resource constraints and very immediate one,” argued Kertsy Hobson, Reader at Cardiff University School of Planning and Geography.

To ensure the success and widespread adoption of a circular economy, it is imperative to make it accessible to all. This involves designing products according to circular criteria, providing consumers with the necessary information to make informed decisions and addressing barriers that hinder repair and product longevity. By prioritising these aspects, policymakers can create an environment in which circular practices are not only encouraged but also easily accessible to individuals, thereby fostering a more sustainable and resilient economy for all.

This debate looked into how policy can ease the barriers to repair, as well as provide information and incentives to all market actors to make circular economy-consistent decisions.

This event took place in Brussels and was also be available to a wider audience via livestream. Follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook, and join the #SSHCENTRE #FoEDebate!

This Policy Insight was part of the SSH CENTRE (Social Sciences and Humanities for Climate, Energy and Transport Research Excellence) project.

This project, supported by 13 leading organisations from across Europe, engages directly with stakeholders including researchers, policymakers, business representatives as well as civil society and citizens to strengthen social innovation, SSH-STEM collaboration and transdisciplinary policy advice, to accelerate the EU’s transition to carbon neutrality.

Related content:

• The sustainable construction revolution – are we there yet? By Gunita Kuļikovska-Ķiesnere
• Co-creating the shift to clean mobility
• SSH CENTRE (Social Sciences and Humanities for Climate, Energy and Transport Research Excellence)

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