Promoting the circular economy for a socio-ecological economic transformation

Context

Brazil is facing some major challenges in its economic, ecological and social development. The current economic model is putting a strain on the environment and the climate. High resource consumption, a low level of recycling and inadequate waste disposal all contribute to this.

The Brazilian Government therefore wants to shift to an ecological and socially inclusive economic growth. The Ecological Transformation Plan and the National Circular Economy Strategy aim to change the economic model. This transformation calls for profound structural changes in how resources and products – from the design stage to final disposal – are produced, utilised, recycled and regenerated. At the same time, the circular economy offers enormous opportunities for sustainable business models and resource-saving production in various sectors. Paying special attention to disadvantaged groups is crucial to reduce social inequalities.

Objective

The economic policy conditions for promoting a socially inclusive circular economy in Brazil have improved.

Approach

The project is active in four outputs to promote a socially inclusive circular economy. It provides capacity development and technical assistance to the Brazilian Government, businesses and financiers. Its priority areas are:

• developing and implementing effective economic policy instruments
• promoting new business models for the circular economy
• facilitating access to finance and appropriate financial instruments
• supporting participatory processes inclusive of relevant representatives of the public, private and civil society sectors

Last update: March 2025