My cookie preferencesCities concentrate high density socio-economic activities: they consume lots of resources, produce greenhouse gas emissions, and generate waste of resources, energy, and water. Yet, it is in cities that the greatest economic, cultural, and innovative activities take place. For this reason, cities offer unique opportunities to experiment circular economy models that reduce human impact.
Circular economy in cities means that products, services, infrastructure, buildings, and vehicles are designed and operated to be durable, modular, locally sourced, and easy to maintain and repurpose. Everything can be reduced, reused, remanufactured, or recycled. The result is a local economy that minimizes waste and pollution, extends product lifetime, operates public services more efficiently and regenerates local ecosystems.
The transition from linear to circular economy models in cities is complex. Although many cities across the EU have recently launched circular economy initiatives and plans, they need robust tools to bring knowledge and scientific evidence into action.
