How can cities and regions ensure that circular economy initiatives benefit everyone in the new DUT policy brief
New policy brief on the role of communities in more just and inclusive circular transitions
26.06.2026
Insights from ECLECTIC
Among the projects contributing to the brief is ECLECTIC, represented by Jessica Balest (Eurac Research). The project has explored how grassroots ecosystems can support circular transitions by sharing resources, exchanging knowledge and collaborating across sectors. In Bolzano, social enterprises, cooperatives, associations and informal groups working with socially vulnerable communities have built networks around circularity and contributed to shaping regional circular economy strategies.
One of the key lessons emerging from ECLECTIC is that social enterprises, cooperatives, NGOs and grassroots initiatives are essential actors in circular transitions. By fostering participation, trust and community engagement, they help ensure that circular economy initiatives are not only environmentally sustainable, but also socially inclusive.
The project also demonstrated the value of creating spaces where grassroots initiatives and public authorities can meet, exchange priorities and align resources. These interactions help reduce power imbalances and strengthen the role of local communities in decision-making processes.
Three shifts for more just urban transitions
Based on the experiences of the seven projects, the brief recommends three key shifts for municipalities:
- Make participation accessible and rebalance power by recognising local knowledge and lived experience, supporting grassroots initiatives and removing barriers to participation.
- Build diverse networks and embrace constructive conflict by involving a broader range of stakeholders and creating spaces where different perspectives can be discussed openly.
- Turn participation into action by ensuring that community input is connected to policy development, budgeting processes and long-term governance structures. Looking ahead
The publication reinforces that a successful circular transition depends not only on technologies and policies, but also on people and communities. When local knowledge is recognised and community actors are empowered to participate, cities can develop solutions that are more resilient, widely supported and socially just.
The policy brief is available through the DUT Knowledge Hub and aims to support public authorities, practitioners and researchers working towards more inclusive urban futures.
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