Ireland's Programme for Government undertakes to end the wasteful cycle of take-make-consume throw-away, promotes sustainable practices that extend the life of products and reduce waste and to supporting enterprises in the circular economy, including repair and refurbishment centres.

The First Whole of Government Circular Economy Strategy was published in 2022, and since then the government has put in place the policy and regulatory framework needed for a successful circular transition.

The Second Whole of Government Circular Economy Strategy will have a statutory basis and includes actions and targets for key sectors (agriculture, retail, packaging, textiles and electronic equipment), as well as identifying the cross-cutting measures with the most potential to make significant contributions to the circular transition.

Ireland is growing, both of terms of GDP and population – and that is placing huge pressure on resources. Action must be taken if Ireland is to reach its circular economy and climate goals.

The Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment has now prepared a draft of Ireland’s Second Whole-of-Government Circular Economy Strategy and is seeking input from interested parties through a public consultation. The consultation will help inform the final content of the Strategy, as well as longer-term policy development in relation to the circular economy.

The closing date for submissions is 17:30 GMT on 5 November. You can send your contribution by email or post: see the consultation for details!