Indicators for a circular economy in a regional context: an approach based on Wielkopolska region, Poland

Abstract

In recent years, the European Commission has made a significant commitment to transition to a circular economy (CE). At the same time, tracking progress in CE implementation remains a major challenge, especially at the regional level. In this context, a set of CE indicators has been proposed for key areas of a selected region of Poland – Wielkopolska, as an area promoting a holistic approach to development through the CE concept. The available scientific literature and key national and regional policies were reviewed. In addition, a desk-research analysis of 22 CE strategic documents of European regions was performed. Applying the aforementioned methods and expert interviews, a set of key 93 indicators was selected within the province’s dominant industries, such as agri-food, industrial processing, mobility and transport, construction and energy. Also, focus was paid to the socio-innovation area. The proposed framework for tracking CE development allows adequate capture of CE’s effects at the regional level. They also provide recommendations for creating monitoring in regions with similar economic profiles.