Europe and Central Asia

This research paper present the summary of an assignment conducted for the Department of Work and Social Economy of the Flemish Government, with support from the Flemish policy research centre Circular Economy. The goal of this research paper is to investigate the impact of the transition to a more circular economy in Flanders on employment. In order to be able to estimate this impact, we firstly want to understand what “the circular economy” actually means and how we can demarcate it at NACE-code level.

This study explores how a shift towards a circular economy could create jobs, particularly in areas with high unemployment and declining mid-level occupations. Analyzing different growth scenarios, the research suggests even a modest expansion could create over 200,000 jobs by 2030 in the UK, potentially lowering unemployment and mitigating skilled job losses. A more ambitious circular economy could generate even greater employment opportunities.

This paper primarily focuses on potential negative social impacts of environmental (transition) policies – with regard to jobs/workers and regions as well as consumers/households – and ways to mitigate such impacts on a European and national level. Moreover, the paper focuses on intra-EU socioeconomic effects and distributional justice rather than international, procedural or recognitional justice. The whole paper is based on a review of existing research literature and policy documents.

At the request of The European Commission EEA has produced EU country profiles that offer an updated view of circular economy policies being implemented at a national level with a particular focus on elements that go beyond EU mandatory elements, and best practice with a focus on policy innovation. While implementing the EU Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP 2020), Member States are encouraged to advance circularity at a national level by adopting policies and initiatives that go beyond EU regulations, while preserving the Single Market.

In this study PWC investigated 7 key sectors where the sharing economy is already substantial or has high growth potential. The report analysed the main forms it takes, some interesting examples, the trends and their impacts, with a special focus on the participants that operate in Hungary.

This research examines the European Union's (EU) push for a circular economy under the Juncker Commission. While the EU promotes a circular economy for environmental and economic benefits, the study finds a gap between its ambitious goals and actual policies. EU discourse emphasizes broad sustainability but policies focus on waste management, suggesting a need for a more comprehensive approach to achieve a truly circular future.

This study examines applying the Circular Economy, focused on minimizing waste, to the complex coffee industry. A 7-month case study of a specialty coffee importer in Amsterdam revealed challenges like government policies and industry mindsets, but also highlighted the importance of shared vision, strong business models, and clear communication for success. The research suggests companies navigate identity concerns and misconceptions about CE through factual communication, emphasizing the interconnectedness of barriers and enablers for a strategic app

This is an article about leveling up the economy through circular economy jobs. It discusses the benefits of a circular economy, which focuses on reusing and recycling products. The circular economy can create jobs in repair,remanufacturing, reuse, and recycling. These jobs could be spread throughout the UK and could help to address regional unemployment. The government can support the circular economy by setting ambitious targets and providing financial incentives.

This is an article about creating a monitoring framework for the circular economy in the European Union. It discusses what a circular economy is and the benefits of having a monitoring framework.

This publication emphasizes the importance of youth involvement in transitioning to a circular economy. The document identifies ways young people can get involved, such as working for companies that encourage circularity, joining sustainability-focused youth groups, and advocating for change.