Closing the Loop: Circular economy solutions for long-term environmental health

Abstract

The ongoing transition to a circular economy signifies an essential change in managing resources, externalities, and sustainability within economies. This framework necessitates a comprehensive approach that acknowledges accountability for each stage of economic activity and its impact on both the social and environmental structures at national and global scales. A robust legislative and policy framework that aligns economic development with waste reduction and climate action is essential for facilitating this transition effectively. This study analyzes policy strategies from an ecological economics perspective, focusing on various developmental stages and emerging economies' specific challenges. These encompass deficiencies in the infrastructure, constraints of technology, legal and regulatory barriers, and sociocultural factors. The study highlights the importance of integrated policy tools such as corporate sustainability plans, extended producer responsibility, and environmental levies in fostering low-carbon, inclusive growth. The statement emphasizes the potential of green growth enablers, such as environmental governance, bioenergy technologies, and circular carbon economy (CCE) concepts, as effective tools for balancing ecological responsibility and economic advancement. The results offer valuable insights to support a development trajectory that is more equitable, robust, and sustainable.