The implementation of the circular economy will entail a major transformation from a resource-destroying, linear economy to a circular one that operates within the planet’s regenerative boundaries. This book presents an interim assessment of the implementation of a circular economy in the EU. It reveals what achievements have been made in various EU institutions, but which are scarcely perceived by the public; which basic scientific principles can be applied in this context; and what NGOs are demanding beyond this progress. It provides convincing arguments for abandoning the “hamster wheel” of material-based satisfaction of our needs, and shows that the primacy of the economy stands in the way of a good life for all. Given its focus, it will appeal to everyone interested in an ecologically sustainable economic system.

"The Circular Economy in Europe presents an overview and a critical discussion on how circularity is conceived, imagined and enacted in current EU policy-making. In 2013, the idea of a circular economy entered the stage of European policy-making in the efforts to reconcile environmental and economic policy objectives. In 2019 the European Commission declared in a press release that the Circular Economy Action Plan has been delivered. The level of circularity in the European economy, however, has remained the same. Bringing together perspectives from social sciences, environmental economics and policy analysis, The Circular Economy in Europe provides a critical analysis of policies and promises of the next panacea for growth and sustainability. The authors provide a theoretical and empirical basis to discuss how contemporary societies conceive their need to re-organise production and consumption and explores the messy assemblage of institutions, actors, waste streams, biophysical flows, policy objectives, scientific disciplines, values, expectations, promises and aspirations involved. This book is essential reading for all those interested in understanding how ideas about the circular economy emerged historically, how they gained traction and are used in policy processes, and what the practical challenges in implementing this policy are"--

The Circular Economy in Europe presents an overview and a critical discussion on how circularity is conceived, imagined, and enacted in current EU policy-making. In 2013, the idea of a circular economy entered the stage of European policy-making in the efforts to reconcile environmental and economic policy objectives. In 2019 the European Commission declared in a press release that the Circular Economy Action Plan has been delivered. The level of circularity in the European economy, however, has remained the same. Bringing together perspectives from social sciences, environmental economics and policy analysis, The Circular Economy in Europe provides a critical analysis of policies and promises of the next panacea for growth and sustainability. The authors provide a theoretical and empirical basis to discuss how contemporary societies conceive their need to re-organise production and consumption and explores the messy assemblage of institutions, actors, waste streams, biophysical flows, policy objectives, scientific disciplines, values, expectations, promises and aspirations involved. This book is essential reading for all those interested in understanding how ideas about the circular economy emerged historically, how they gained traction and are used in policy processes, and what the practical challenges in implementing this policy are.

This book provides an overview of a circular economy. This model has profound consequences for production, employment, education, money & finance but also induces a shift in public policy and taxation. Its economic advantage lies in designing out waste and favouring radical resource productivity with the prospect of rebuilding capital & resilience.

The EIB Circular Economy Guide aims to promote a common understanding of circular economy, and raise awareness about and promote circular solutions. The Guide provides information about EIB's lending and advisory activities in this field, and communicates our vision of how the EIB can further support the transition to a circular economy. The Guide is a living document that will be updated in response to our evolving understanding of circular economy needs, opportunities and risks, and growing experience with the appraisal and financing of circular economy projects.

"The Circular Economy: Principles, Philosophies, Science, and Modern Applications" offers a comprehensive exploration of the transformative power of the circular economy in reshaping industries, societies, and environmental practices worldwide. In this timely and insightful work, Ron Legarski, an expert in telecommunications, sustainability, and network infrastructure, presents a clear and actionable guide to understanding and implementing circular models across key sectors such as manufacturing, energy, agriculture, and telecommunications. As businesses, governments, and organizations face the urgent need to transition from linear to circular systems, this book provides the philosophical, scientific, and practical foundations needed to drive real change. Readers will gain insights into critical topics, including resource efficiency, waste reduction, closed-loop systems, and the role of emerging technologies such as Industry 4.0, AI, IoT, and smart grids in enabling the circular economy. Through real-world case studies, policy recommendations, and in-depth analysis, "The Circular Economy" bridges the gap between theory and practice, offering readers: A detailed exploration of the philosophical origins and scientific principles behind circular thinking. Insights into the role of standardization, global frameworks, and public-private partnerships in scaling circular practices. Strategies for transforming industries, including telecommunications, energy, construction, and agriculture, to operate within a circular model. An understanding of the economic, social, and environmental benefits of circular systems, including job creation, resource conservation, and climate change mitigation. Whether you are a business leader, policymaker, sustainability advocate, or student, this book serves as both an essential resource and a source of inspiration for building a future rooted in circularity. With a deep commitment to sustainability and innovation, Ron Legarski offers a compelling vision of how we can collectively shape a world where waste is minimized, resources are continually reused, and economic growth thrives without compromising the environment. "The Circular Economy: Principles, Philosophies, Science, and Modern Applications" is more than just a book—it is a roadmap for creating a sustainable, resilient, and prosperous future for industries and societies alike.

How can we design more sustainable industrial and urban systems that reduce environmental impacts while supporting a high quality of life for everyone? What progress has been made towards reducing resource use and waste, and what are the prospects for more resilient, material-efficient economies? What are the environmental and social impacts of global supply chains and how can they be measured and improved? Such questions are at the heart of the emerging discipline of industrial ecology, covered in Taking Stock of Industrial Ecology. Leading authors, researchers and practitioners review how far industrial ecology has developed and current issues and concerns, with illustrations of what the industrial ecology paradigm has achieved in public policy, corporate strategy and industrial practice. It provides an introduction for students coming to industrial ecology and for professionals who wish to understand what industrial ecology can offer, a reference for researchers and practitioners and a source of case studies for teachers.