The circular economy practices in the European Union: Eco-innovation and sustainable development

Abstract

This study examines whether there is convergence in eco-innovation by comparing the circular economy practices of European Union Member States. The European Union Member States’ eco-innovation initiatives in the circular economy are the foundation for their interpretation of their relative efficiencies. In 2015, the European Commission granted sanction to the Circular Economy Package, in accordance with the European Union’s (EU) objective of transitioning to a low-carbon economy that is competitive, resource-efficient, and environmentally sustainable. This compilation includes legislative proposals and a comprehensive action plan for refuse management. Subsequently, in January 2018, additional measures were implemented to guarantee the successful implementation of the action plan. Concurrently, numerous European Union Member States implemented substantial strategies to facilitate this transition. The current systematic literature review is conducted using the “SALSA method”, which commences with a scoping search, progresses to an evaluation, and concludes with synthesis and analysis. Its purpose was to elucidate the circular economy practices and eco-innovation activities in the European Union. The objective of this assessment is to provide a concise overview of the most recent developments and initiatives that have been implemented in the European Union since the Circular Economy Package was adopted. Furthermore, it will evaluate the strategies implemented by particular Member States in this context. Methods of scientific literature analysis, including systematic, comparative, content analysis, grouping, comparison, SALSA, and TOPSIS methods, are used in this study.