Loops to Leapfrog

Abstract

If policies are to be successful, they have to reflect the underlying intent of a circular economy; guiding principles are a necessary and helpful tool. This research puts the circular value creation principles (Circularity Principles) as defined by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation to the test to see if they are useful as a policy making tool. These Circularity Principles are critically examined through case studies from the plastic value chain. The research concludes first of all that the Circularity Principles give a good insight in the difficulties which may arise and that they can reveal trade-offs whereas the policy maker has to balance the principles against each other. Secondly it concludes that the Circularity Principles provide a long term focus for policy makers to check a priori which policies will really contribute to a transition towards a more circular economy.