Chapter 3: The Reality of Circular Economy Investment in European Union Countries

The reality of circular economy investment in European Union countries indicates significant development and serious strategies aimed at shifting from a linear economy to a more sustainable and efficient economic model. The European Commission adopted a policy and legislative package (CEP) in 2015, aiming to promote recycling, reduce waste, and lower carbon emissions, reflecting the EU’s commitment to balanced environmental and economic development. Data have shown that EU countries have witnessed an increase in recycling rates, with the recycling rate rising from 62% in 2005 to 68% in 2018, along with a decrease in reliance on primary raw materials and an increase in the use of recycled materials. Countries such as Germany, France, and Belgium have also emerged in adopting clear national policies to implement circular economy principles, while countries such as Poland have made significant progress despite their late start. On the trade front, there has been an increase in exports of recyclable waste from the EU to countries outside its borders, with a significant decrease in the volume of imports of these materials, reflecting an improvement in internal resource efficiency. All these indicators indicate that the circular economy is no longer a secondary option but rather a strategic path to achieving economic growth, environmental conservation, and future resource security. However, there are still disparities between countries in the extent of implementation and progress, which calls for enhanced cooperation and exchange of expertise among member states to achieve common goals at the level of the entire union.