Decoupling or 'Decaffing'? The Underlying Conceptualisation of Circular Economy in the European Union Monitoring Framework

This study discusses the introduction and implementation of the European Union (EU) monitoring framework to assess the Progress towards a Circular Economy (CE). This initiative is an integral part of the EU's development strategy and aims to promote the transition to a more sustainable, resource-efficient and competitive economy.

The monitoring framework developed by the European Commission is mainly focussed on self-sufficiency in materials and recycling. It is criticised for neglecting other important dimensions that are necessary for comprehensive systemic change. For example, aspects such as the distribution of material flows between EU member states, the durability of products and the influence of eco-design, repair and reuse are not sufficiently taken into account.

In order to measure the true contributions of the circular economy to sustainability, the authors suggest expanding the monitoring framework to include indicators for energy, land and water consumption as well as emissions. In addition, the average product lifespan and its main determinants should be tracked. A systemic approach requires new metrics and the consideration of institutional drivers necessary for the transition to CE, including the assessment of legal and fiscal barriers as well as the EU's innovation resources.

The socio-economic implications of CE, such as the impact on net employment and the emergence of new forms of co-operation, also need to be critically examined. The current lack of studies in this area favours the spread of a limited view of CE, described as "green capitalism".

This monitoring framework offers a significant opportunity to strengthen the most comprehensive and systemic aspects of the circular economy and thus make a real contribution to sustainability.

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