The European Union (EU) is taking a major step toward sustainability with its new Circular Economy Act, aiming to double the region’s circularity rate by 2030. Currently, only around 11.8% of materials are re-entered into the economy after use. The goal is to increase this to 24% within the next five years, signaling a bold move to reduce waste, improve resource efficiency, and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Despite previous legislation and initiatives, progress has been slow over the past decade. The new Act is designed to target systemic barriers and create conditions for circularity to thrive. It is expected to be a core part of the EU’s Clean Industrial Deal and broader competitiveness strategy, with adoption scheduled for 2026.

At the heart of the legislation are two focus areas. First, the EU aims to significantly improve the collection and recycling of electronic waste, while boosting demand for secondary raw materials, particularly those that are critical. Second, it will work toward creating a genuine single market for secondary materials, including streamlined “end-of-waste” rules, enhanced digital tools for extended producer responsibility, and mandatory circular public procurement policies.

The Circular Economy Act will align with existing regulatory frameworks such as the Eco-design for Sustainable Products Regulation and the Critical Raw Materials Act. This integrated approach is designed to reduce fragmentation and improve policy coherence across the EU, while also reinforcing efforts in key sectors like construction, electronics, and packaging.

Public consultation is now open through the EU’s “Have Your Say” portal, with feedback welcomed until November 6, 2025. This collaborative process will help shape the final legislative proposal, ensuring it reflects the needs of businesses, consumers, and environmental stakeholders alike.

The Circular Economy Act is a pivotal opportunity for the EU to reclaim its leadership in circularity. If successful, it could serve as a model for the rest of the world, turning ambition into action and waste into value.

Source:

https://esgnews.com/eu-targets-doubling-circularity-rate-with-new-circular-economy-act-by-2030/