The European Circular Economy Action Plan, adopted by the European Commission in March 2020, is one of the key components of the European Green Deal. Indeed, the circular economy reduces the pressures exerted on natural resources and is a prerequisite to achieve the aim of climate neutrality by 2050 and preserve biodiversity as much as possible.
The social, economic and environmental challenges are a real opportunity to move from a linear economy to a circular economy that recognizes the limits of global resources, and that promotes the reuse of raw materials.
In this context, the European Union should promote the transition to a renewable growth that is decoupled from the use of resources , and that gives back to the planet more than it takes.
Continuing the actions from 2015 in favour of a circular economy, this new plan points the way to a sustainable and thriving economy without leaving anyone behind. It provides measures to be implemented throughout the life cycle of products while reducing waste production. Its actions also strengthen competitiveness and create new jobs. They also aim to protect the environment and grant new rights to consumers.
The measures to promote product sustainability focus on industries and sectors that use large quantities of resources, such as textiles, construction, electronics or plastics. These various actions should contribute to the EU's industrial strategy as well as future strategies on biodiversity, forests and food.
To promote the transition to a circular economy on a global level, the Commission wishes to advance discussions with other international partners.