Cities and regions play a fundamental role in the transition from a linear to a circular economy. They are responsible for crucial policies on local public services such as transport, solid waste, water and energy that affect citizens’ well-being, economic growth and environmental quality. Although there is a well-established body of literature on measuring the circular economy and its implications, most monitoring frameworks focus on measuring materials and waste production. The multi-dimensional aspect of the circular economy means that we need to identify new targets and indicators.
If future circular economy policies were supported only by macro indicators on materials, waste and recycling, the economy might well not be adapted to planetary and social boundaries. Cities and regions are already taking important steps to link up possible impacts on people, the planet and society by analysing the carbon footprint of material flows and linking circular economy strategies with localisation of SDGs.
How can monitoring frameworks support local policy making to enhance the environmental and social impacts of the circular economy? How can we measure circular economy actions that can be taken at local level to decrease the EU's carbon footprint and significantly reduce the risks linked to climate change?
ACR+, Zero Waste Scotland, EEB, ICLEI, EIT Circular Economy Community, Circular Regions and the ECESP invite you to attend this #EUCircularTalks on 17 November to discuss the implications of measuring circular economy actions in cities and regions.