By 2050, two thirds of the global population will live in cities. Under the current ‘take-makewaste’ economy, cities consume over 75% of natural resources, produce over 50% of global waste, and emit between 60-80% of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). 1 Circular economy in Europe has the potential to increase EU GDP by an additional 0.5% by 2030 and to create around 700,000 jobs, while decreasing our environmental footprint and GHG emissions.2

A fully-fledged circular economy requires rethinking the way of making and using products and services while exploring new ways of ensuring long-term wellbeing for all. As major engines for economic development, cities can drive the circular economy agenda forward to unlock economic, environmental, and social benefits.

In the aftermath of the COVID19 crisis, the link between environment, health and social inclusion must be reinforced and rethought, reflecting on the de-materialisation of society and on circular resource loops. 3 Our approach to production and consumption has also been questioned: we need to bring our strategic value chains and industries back to Europe to produce and consume locally, lowering our transport emissions and therefore reducing our climate footprint. The Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP) is a key initiative to relaunch the society post-COVID19, by accelerating the transition towards a more sustainable and circular economy, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.