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Progress and Challenges of Circular Economy in Selected EU Countries

Author

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  • Klaudia Nowak-Marchewka

    (Department of Power Engineering and Transportation, Faculty of Production Engineering, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 20-612 Lublin, Poland)

  • Emilia Osmólska

    (Department of Power Engineering and Transportation, Faculty of Production Engineering, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 20-612 Lublin, Poland)

  • Monika Stoma

    (Department of Power Engineering and Transportation, Faculty of Production Engineering, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 20-612 Lublin, Poland)

Abstract

Circular economy (CE) is a model that is gaining significance in the context of sustainable development and environmental protection, focusing on minimizing waste generation and maximizing the use of available resources through recycling and extending product life cycles. The implementation of CE in various European Union countries demonstrates diverse approaches to resource management, waste production, and energy efficiency improvement. These differences primarily stem from varying strategies, national policies, levels of social awareness, and technological advancements. The article identifies the key challenges and barriers associated with CE implementation in selected countries—Poland, the Netherlands, and Romania—and highlights specific areas requiring improvement and adaptation. It emphasizes the critical role of aligning national policies with the EU guidelines, promoting ecological education, and investing in innovative technologies and solutions that support sustainable development. Additionally, it points to the need for developing appropriate waste management infrastructure and encouraging businesses and consumers to change habits and engage in pro-environmental actions.

Suggested Citation

  • Klaudia Nowak-Marchewka & Emilia Osmólska & Monika Stoma, 2025. "Progress and Challenges of Circular Economy in Selected EU Countries," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(1), pages 1-35, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:1:p:320-:d:1559912
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    2. Wei Hou & Qianwen Yang & Yipei Cao & Lei Luo & Jingyi Ding & Qilin Wang & Jun Wei & Hai Ma, 2025. "Impact of Ecological Education on University Students’ Environmentally Sustainable Behavior—Evidence from China," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(13), pages 1-27, July.
    3. Cezar-Petre Simion & Laura-Georgeta Bărăgan & Mihai Vrîncuț & Madalina Mazare, 2025. "The Influence of Circular Economy Initiatives on the EU Environmental Goods and Services Sector," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(19), pages 1-16, September.

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