The next circular economy action plan: Priority measures for the European Commission

To make the circular economy a reality, the policy focus of the next Circular Economy Action Plan, expected in March 2020, needs to move away from targeting waste and shift clearly towards more transformational design and systemic solutions. One key element will be for Europe to finally set up a sustainable and circular product policy framework, with a strong focus on product ecodesign, giving priority to such important sectors as textiles, construction products, furniture, and electrical and electronic products including batteries.

We also call for exclusion of hazardous chemicals, better integration between bioeconomy and circular economy, reducing plastic’s environmental footprint and use, and a stronger focus on waste prevention. All of these activities need improved environmental assessment tools and sustainable financing.

Read our recommendations here.