The contribution G20 governments can make to support the circular economy

Abstract:

In recent years the circular economy has received increasing attention worldwide due to, inter alia, the recognition that security of supply of resources and environmental sustainability are crucial for the prosperity of countries and businesses.

This report urges G20 countries to develop frameworks that enhance the circular economy and more generally sustainable production and consumption modes.

In this context, their governments are encouraged to:

1) integrate the circular economy into discussions about implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement,
2) work towards agreed terminologies for circular economy products and processes,
3) support demand for circular economy products and services,
4) support transparency across global supply chains,
5) facilitate financing for establishing circular supply chains and
6) proactively address transition issues.

This Policy Brief was prepared for the German Presidency of the G20 in 2016-17 to provide input to the ongoing dialogue with G20 decisions-makers and other relevant stakeholders. During the G20 process, a network of research institutes, called Think20 (T20), develops policy recommendations within thematic Task Forces which are then published in the form of Policy Briefs.

A Task Force was formed, co-chaired by CEPS Research Fellow Vasileios Rizos, to carry out an in-depth study of the ways in which G20 governments can support the circular economy. The report was prepared by Vasileios Rizos, Arno Behrens (CEPS Senior Research Fellow), David Rinaldi (CEPS Research Fellow) and Eleanor Drabik (CEPS Researcher).