Secondary raw materials in the circular economy: a multi-perspective study

Abstract

The book offers a comprehensive examination of the theoretical and practical aspects of secondary raw material markets within the context of the circular economy. The utilisation of secondary raw materials is of vital importance in the reduction of reliance on non-renewable primary resources, and plays a pivotal role in the development of circular economy business models, as emphasised by the OECD and the EU Circular Economy Action Plan. The study highlights the significance of secondary raw materials (i.e. aluminium, plastics, textiles, etc.) in promoting sustainability and competitiveness, particularly in sectors characterised by high resource consumption. The monograph seeks to provide a multifaceted understanding of secondary raw material markets, offering valuable insights into their development and the legal frameworks necessary to support a sustainable circular economy. The book is structured into four chapters, each addressing a discrete aspect of the secondary raw material market. The initial chapter addresses the sustainable management of these materials, examining the challenges and opportunities encountered by businesses and including case studies that illustrate successful practices. The second chapter explores the conceptual aspects of the secondary raw material market, examining its role within the circular economy and identifying key indicators and challenges for future market development. The third chapter presents exemplary practices from countries such as Belgium, the Netherlands, and Estonia, with a particular focus on innovative strategies and the role of trading platforms in market advancement. The concluding chapter examines the legal dimensions of trade in waste and secondary raw materials, contrasting international and Lithuania’s national regulatory frameworks and analysing judicial practices to elucidate their implications for sustainable resource management. This monograph represents the collective output of scientific collaboration between authors affiliated with the Public Security Academy of Mykolas Romeris University (Lithuania) and the Strategic Analysis Department of the Krakow University of Economics (Poland).