Part of a policy series on accelerating the circular economy transition, this brief explores policies which aim to make circular systems the norm via design, focusing on three key systems: products, agricultural systems and cities. Together, they account for the vast majority of resource use, waste generation and environmental impact, and crucially, all three are shaped by policy-led design decisions.
The way these systems are designed matters. A focused mix of upstream policy instruments can reduce reliance on virgin resources, improve material circulation and deliver economic, environmental and social benefits.
The brief features six case studies from G20 countries and provides practical recommendations to help policymakers design and implement effective circular economy policies.
