Trend The importance of circular economy is growing

Summary

This trend describes the circular economy becoming more central as environmental pressures and demand for resources both grow. Beyond reducing waste, circularity supports self-sufficiency, security of supply and a sustainable food system. In a circular economy, existing products and materials are kept in effective use for as long as possible so that assets are used efficiently. It covers not only recycling but new business models and services such as sharing, renting, repairing and reuse. Sitra connects this to rising demand for critical minerals, the EU's Circular Economy Act taking effect in 2026 and Finland's own low circular material use rate. It presents circularity as a way to ease resource uncertainty while strengthening resilience.