ACR+

This report reviews circular economy strategies in support to the European Circular Economy
Stakeholder Platform (ECESP). Circular economy strategies have been under development in
European cities, regions, and countries in the last few years. 33 strategies have been adopted since
2014, and at least 29 more are under development. Existing strategies were reviewed to identify
similarities and differences, assess the involvement of civil society organisations, and potential for
collaboration. The documents reflect a period of defining and understanding the circular economy
concept and its possibilities. In this evolving context, strategies are valuable endeavours which draw
attention to the topic, kickstart initiatives and bring stakeholders together. The report argues that
documents developed in the future should put more focus on including broader sections of value
chains, and on ensuring inclusive partnership approaches in all phases of the strategy’s cycle. To date,
circular economy strategies show different degrees of inclusiveness in terms of value chains and
partner involvement. Limited inclusive approaches can be explained by the exploratory nature of most
documents. This includes a stronger involvement of civil society organisations in earlier phases of
strategy development, and not just for dissemination and citizen involvement. The report highlights
the ECESP’s role in gathering and sharing civil society’s knowledge and making sure it’s fed into the
policy cycle for circular economy.