For years, debates about the circular economy have focused on the production sector, reusing materials, recycling and waste management. Yet, new research suggests that this approach can unintentionally reproduce existing inequalities in cities. In an interview, Chiara Pellegrini, coordinator of the DUT project ECLECTIC, discusses two key recommendations for municipalities and regions from the latest ECLECTIC policy brief. She also argues for the need to include a social dimension in circular urban economy strategies across EU cities.
“Circularity in Europe is framed as strategic and competitive, but I think it should not only be that. Circularity should also be the means of fostering social cohesion across the EU. It should be a way of giving more access to good products and services to all citizens, especially with the high inflation that we are experiencing.” – Chiara Pellegrini, Senior Researcher at Eurac Research and ECLECTIC project coordinator.
For cities, giving more access to products and services at lower cost to all citizens, and using the circular economy as a strategy also for social cohesion and inclusion should be the priority. Read the policy brief “Circularity is a people matter: How local governments can build just circular economy strategies in cities and regions” by ECLECTIC
