EUSBSR “No time to waste. Unlocking the circular potential of the Baltic Sea Region”

In this report we analyse the transition of Baltic Sea Region (BSR) countries from a linear to a circular economy. Linear economy relies on extensive mining and harvesting in order to carelessly produce goods of short lifespan, which are later disposed and treated as waste. It may be described by take-make-consume-dispose sequence of actions. Circular economy is based on recursive movement of goods and materials through remanufacture, retake, reuse, repair and recycle. Demand for raw resources is met by recycled materials or renewable sources, production is highly energy and resource efficient, products’ lifespan is long and consumption – limited and more responsible. For over a decade BSR countries are slowly transforming their economies towards including more circular business models, investing in renewable energy generation and making waste management more efficient and ecological. However, for many countries there is still a long way to go and a slow advancement in introducing circular solutions might put a too heavy burden for the environment.