Survey of Circular Economy Indicators study

Survey of Circular Economy Indicators study In the summer of 2019, the study “Development of the Methodology for Compiling the Circular Economy Strategy” commissioned by the Ministry of the Environment was completed. As a result of the study, a possible monitoring framework for the circular economy was developed and indicators suitable for measuring the development of the circular economy in Estonia were proposed. Among other things, the circular economy was defined in the Estonian context as follows: The aim of the circular economy is to preserve the value of products and materials for as long as possible, and when a product reaches the end of its life cycle, it is used to create new value. One of the conclusions of the study was that Estonia is currently characterized by an economic structure with large foreign-owned companies with their own R&D capabilities and local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) lagging behind in productivity and R&D. , as the labor market in the sector tends to have lower wages and lower value jobs, and there is little co - operation between companies. The circular economy should therefore be defined in terms of the extent to which companies are able to engage in research and development, creating innovative products and services that address local socio-economic challenges. Innovative business models that create new skilled jobs and increase productivity are also important in the circular economy. In reaching the circular economy model, it is important to involve all stakeholders (entrepreneurs, policy makers, society as a whole). An important component of the circular economy is measurability in order to understand the current state and potential of the circular economy. The analysis of the current situation will allow informed decisions to be made on the need for further actions, including focus sectors, support measures, legislative changes and research, which would help to improve competitiveness and create favorable conditions for the wider application of the circular economy. By applying the indicators of the circular economy, it is possible to obtain a so-called baseline, which can be used as a basis in the future to measure progress towards the circular economy, assess progress and, if necessary, make changes in the action plan and other programs. Technopolis Group Eesti and HeiVäl Consulting conducted a study that brings together already applicable and potential indicators for measuring the Estonian circular economy. The final report of the study and the annexes are available here: