What is Circular Economy?
In a circular economy, materials are utilized efficiently and sustainably, and they remain in circulation for a long time and safely. Products are also shared, leased, repaired and recycled. Servicification is part of the circular economy, for example, when services replace the ownership of products by paying for use or result.
The circular economy is a new operating method for the economy that produces economic well-being within the limits of the planet's carrying capacity. It utilises digitalisation efficiently and will renew the structures and operating models of society. The circular economy is a means for reducing the use of natural resources.
The programme
Finland has prepared a strategic programme to promote a circular economy. The aim is to transform the economy into one that is based on the principles of circular economy by 2035. With this programme, the Finnish Government wants to strengthen Finland’s role as a leader in the circular economy. The transition into a circular economy is also a step towards achieving the Government's carbon neutrality target by 2035. The Finnish Government adopted the resolution on promoting a circular economy on 8 April 2021.
- Government resolution on the Strategic Programme for Circular Economy 8.4.2021
- Press release of Ministry of the Environment 8 April 2021: Finland's Circular Economy Programme sets targets to curb overconsumption of natural resources
The strategic programme to promote a circular economy sets out objectives for the use of natural resources. It sets the objectives and indicators, specify the measures to be taken and allocate the resources needed to promote the circular economy and achieve systemic change.
A broad spectrum of stakeholders such as different ministries and research institutes, in dialogue with companies, business sectors and local governments, participated in the process to prepare the resolution. The preparation of the programme for circular economy has been supported by a citizens’ jury, which consisted of 50 citizens randomly selected from among volunteers. In addition, all citizens had an opportunity to participate in the preparation of the programme through an online brainstorming platform.
What is topical on circular economy in Finland
- Ministry of the Environment hosted an Accelerator session “Recipes for circular futures - pitching, sparring and learning from national circular economy strategies” at World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2023 on 1st of June. Based on our session a “Recipe Book for Circular Futures” was created. Read the booklet here (nextcloud).