Role of Industries in Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy

Abstract

Resource Efficiency is concerned with decoupling the growth of human well-being and economic development from the increased use of natural resources and aggravated negative environmental impacts. Resource Efficiency is a linchpin for the transition to Circular Economy, which is ultimately concerned with harmonizing and balancing the cyclic use of materials, both natural and man-made, water and energy in the economy with the long-term carrying capacity of the environment. Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy result from changes in production and consumption systems, and the markets and cultural, normative, policy and regulatory frameworks these operate in. There is compelling evidence of business and economy-wide benefits of greater Resource Efficiency and circularity that can be unlocked by enabling businesses and industries to invest in productivity and innovation, with the three-pronged aim of: maximizing substitution of non-renewable resources; improving the efficiency of use of all natural resources; and perpetually recovering value from all wastes.

The views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, their respective secretariats or any of their respective member states. Designations such as developed, industrialized, developing and transition are intended for convenience and do not necessarily express a judgement about the stage reached by a particular country or area in its development process.