In a new report presented in Copenhagen on Thursday (21 March), the European Environment Agency (EEA) emphasized the urgency for Europe to accelerate its economy’s transformation into a circular one. This shift is crucial in meeting climate targets, as waste reduction and resource use reduction are essential to achieving sustainability.
The EEA highlighted several issues that hinder progress towards a circular economy, including mass production of products with short lifespans and early breakdown or premature obsolescence. A recent study revealed that a significant percentage of textiles in the European market are destroyed without ever being used, causing substantial CO2 emissions in the process.
To enhance circularity, the agency recommended strategies to retain materials’ original function and value for as long as possible. Promoting reuse and repair of products can maximize their lifespan, reduce overall consumption and minimize imports. The EEA also stressed the need for higher-quality recycling to ensure that materials can be used again without compromising their quality or safety standards.
