Polish society towards the implementation of the circular economy and the change of municipal waste management – ecological, economic and social aspect

Abstract

Circular economy (CE) is seen as a key strategy for achieving sustainable development (SD). One of the components of SD is sustainable production and consumption. Poland, as an EU member state, has for many years been trying to imitate the good practices of other countries in the field of sustainable production and consumption, and above all, in reducing the amount of waste generated. However, the country’s economic situation, pandemic, people’s mentality, habits and other ecological, economic and social factors mean that the pursuit of CE is very slow. The aim of the article is to present own research showing the level of recovery and recycling of municipal waste in Poland in comparison to the EU, and the level of preparation of Polish society for the implementation of CE. The survey method with open and closed questions was used in the research. Moreover, the observation of the market and the analysis of the literature on the subject allowed for drawing additional conclusions. Research shows that part of the society does not segregate waste despite the obligation and higher fees, does not believe in CE and, unfortunately, disposes of waste incorrectly. In addition, the differences between the repair/refurbishment and the purchase of goods from discount stores, or second-hand goods are so slight that it is not profitable for the consumer to repair, regenerate used goods - from an economic point of view, it is better to buy a new one at “ cheap “shop.