The Ellen MacArthur Foundation has published “Circular by Nature: A Policy Agenda for Bio-Based Materials in a Circular Economy,” highlighting the untapped potential of bio-based materials to drive innovation, strengthen supply chains and support Europe’s circular transition.
The report argues that while bio-based materials are renewable, they are still largely managed through linear systems. It calls for policies that go beyond replacing fossil-based materials and instead promote regenerative sourcing, value retention, reuse, recycling and nutrient recovery throughout the entire value chain. Five priority areas are identified, including better policy alignment, market incentives, investment in innovation and stronger collaboration across sectors. It also provides timely insights as Europe advances its Circular Economy Act and reinforces the importance of integrating bio-based materials into circular economy policies to achieve long-term environmental, economic and societal benefits.
These recommendations closely align with the objectives of the CIRCLE Flagship initiative, which promotes systemic circular economy solutions through research, innovation and stakeholder collaboration. By encouraging resource efficiency, circular design and sustainable value chains, CIRCLE contributes to the transition towards an economy that keeps materials in use for longer while regenerating natural systems.
