A Framework for Implementing and Tracking Circular Economy in Cities: The Case of Porto

António Cavaleiro De Ferreira,Francesco Fuso-Nerini

doi:10.3390/su11061813

António Cavaleiro De Ferreira, Francesco Fuso-Nerini

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/su11061813

Copy DOI

Abstract

Circular economy (CE) is an emerging concept that contrasts the linear economic system. This concept is particularly relevant for cities, currently hosting approximately 50% of the world’s population. Research gaps in the analysis and implementation of circular economy in cities are a significant barrier to its implementation. This paper presents a multi-sectorial and macro-meso level framework to monitor (and set goals for) circular economy implementation in cities. Based on literature and case studies, it encompasses CE key concepts, such as flexibility, modularity, and transparency. It is structured to include all sectors in which circular economy could be adopted in a city. The framework is then tested in Porto, Portugal, monitoring the circularity of the city and considering its different sectors.

Highlights

Circular economy (CE) is an emerging concept which is seen as the alternative to the current linear economy [1]
This work presents a framework that comes from a holistic definition of CEs in a city context, and the framework was developed to be modular, flexible, and transparent
The framework should be applied to new cases and could be upgraded in several ways

Summary

Introduction

Circular economy (CE) is an emerging concept which is seen as the alternative to the current linear economy [1]. Its impacts are seen as relevant— more than ever. Given the present environmental crisis, alongside economic uncertainty, governments have started seeking alternatives. China has made successful use of CE to tackle urban pollution and a wasteful system [2]. The EU has a variety of international environmental, technological, economical, and social goals. It looks to follow the United Nations (UN) 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A CE can be the answer to a systemic approach that eases the completion of several goals, Goal 12 [3]

Methods

Findings

Discussion

Conclusion