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Circular Economy

Boosting consumer trust could unlock $4 Billion market for retired EV batteries  

New research from Chonnam National University (CNU) reveals that building consumer trust through transparent safety inspections is essential to unlocking the $4 billion market for repurposed and retired EV batteries in second-life energy storage systems.

PlastChem database reveals scale of hazardous chemicals in plastics

A new scientific database has revealed the hidden chemical landscape within everyday plastics, raising concerns about human health, environmental safety, and the feasibility of a truly circular economy.

The race for rare earth and critical minerals: From risk to results

Cecilia Van Cauwenberghe at Everest Group, examines the competition for rare earth and critical minerals, discussing how governments and companies can transform a contested supply chain into a sustainable economic opportunity.

Global urbanisation outpaces population growth, raising sustainability concerns

A new report, World Urbanisation Prospects 2025 (WUP25), reveals a dramatic shift in how humanity occupies the planet. Since 1975, the amount of built-up land has grown nearly twice as fast as the global population. a

EU waste management creates potential to cut emissions and costs

While the European Union is ahead of global standards in waste management, a new study shows that more improvements are still possible.

EU kicks off consultation and call for evidence for the Circular Economy Act

The EU Commission has launched a public consultation for its upcoming Circular Economy Act. This initiative aims to accelerate the transition to a more circular economy, boosting the EU's resilience and competitiveness. Feedback is open until November 2025.

Can embracing technology help Europe develop a circular economy?

In this insightful piece, Mirco Peron, Assistant Professor of Supply Chain Management at NEOMA Business School, argues that embracing technology could help Europe develop a circular economy.

EU environment policy: Nature, biodiversity, the circular economy and chemicals

Explore EU environment policy, illustrated by the examples of nature, biodiversity, the circular economy and chemicals, with Open Access Government.

The 2025-2030 ESPR plan to promote sustainable products

The European Commission has announced the launch of its 2025-2030 plans to create a greener, more circular economy under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and Energy Labelling Regulation.

Harnessing solar lighting to transform public spaces

Craig Wood from Urbis Schréder outlines the benefits of solar lighting for public spaces, highlighting its role in creating safer, sustainable, and cost-effective urban environments.

New battery waste codes to improve the circular economy and promote recycling

To create a more sustainable and circular economy, the European Commission has updated the European List of Waste to include new waste codes specifically designed for battery-related waste.

The European Circular Economy Stakeholder Platform: Finding a sustainable future

Maria Nikolopoulou, a EESC member, argues that the European Circular Economy Stakeholder Platform is Europe’s best bet for a sustainable future.

Empowering cities with smart solar lighting

Urbis Schréder is an independent outdoor lighting solutions provider worldwide, committed to supporting communities and transforming spaces, cities, and the planet. Here, they discuss their sustainable solar lighting solutions.

Cornwall: A hub for research, innovation and sustainability

Cornwall is emerging as a global centre for innovation and sustainability. The county is at the forefront of addressing critical global challenges, from climate change and human health to securing a sustainable supply of critical minerals.

Building a sustainable future in Urban areas

Urban areas are at the centre of Europe’s environmental challenges and opportunities.

The UK Government moves to ban the sale and supply of single-use vapes

Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh confirmed today that single-use vapes, which cannot be recharged or refilled, will be banned from 1 June 2025 as...

Reducing single-use medical devices in the NHS

The UK government is launching a new strategy to help reduce the reliance on single-use medical devices in the NHS.

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