EU Green Week – A Reflection on the Theme: Circular Economy

From June 3–5, 2025, Brussels hosted EU Green Week, anchoring its discussions around the theme “Circular Solutions for a Competitive EU”. This year’s gathering spotlighted the transformative potential of the circular economy, not just as an environmental initiative but as a core strategy for reshaping Europe’s economic model. The event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, environmental advocates, and citizens, all united by a shared recognition: the circular economy is key to a cleaner, more competitive, and more resilient Europe.

In her opening remarks, Commissioner Jessika Roswall set the tone for the week, emphasizing the urgency of structural change. “Green Week will be an opportunity to address the systemic change we need to make the circular economy a reality on the ground and how to actually drive that change. We need a change of mindset. Not only among consumers, but for businesses as well.” This call to action resonated throughout the conference. From legislative innovations to business best practices, the circular economy was presented as an essential path forward, boosting competitiveness, enhancing strategic autonomy, reducing waste, and encouraging innovation.

Among the practical developments discussed were the ongoing updates to the EU Circular Economy Act and Action Plan, which now target areas such as sustainable design, electronic waste management, and restoration of water cycles. Interactive sessions explored how AI can support industrial transitions, how the bioeconomy fits into a circular framework, and how regions can restore natural systems through regenerative practices. Across Europe, more than 300 partner events added depth and grassroots engagement to the week. These included collaborations between municipalities, industries, and civic groups, like a case study from Copenhagen where reclaimed construction materials are being repurposed for affordable housing, a tangible example of circularity in action.

International agencies were also present, with a notable panel hosted by UNRIC drawing attention to the global dimensions of circularity. “The transition to a circular economy is not just an environmental imperative—it is a development opportunity. It enables us to reduce waste…” said one speaker, emphasizing how circular practices can bridge sustainability and development goals across borders. The emphasis was on global coordination, aligning strategies between developed and developing regions, and encouraging mutual accountability in resource management.

Private sector leaders echoed these sentiments. Lars Petersson, CEO of VELUX, highlighted the economic stakes of the transition: “The green transition is about tackling the climate crisis, and equally about ensuring Europe’s competitiveness, resilience and energy security.” Similarly, Ignacio Galán of Iberdrola stressed the need for sustained policy direction, noting, “With the Green Deal, we have the right legislative framework. Now it’s time to deliver...towards not just 2030, but also 2040 and 2050.”

As the EU looks to reduce its dependence on imported raw materials, much of which comes from Africa, this shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity for African nations. Rather than remaining passive suppliers in a global value chain that is rapidly transforming, African countries can seize this moment to recalibrate their economic trajectories. Expanding trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), improving transport infrastructure, and implementing resource-focused taxation can help countries retain more value from their natural assets. The future lies in strengthening manufacturing capabilities, developing digital technologies that support circular models, and fostering innovation within local economies. Initiatives like the African Alliance on Circular Economy, supported by the African Development Bank, are already working to develop country-specific roadmaps and unlock sustainable investment.

But technical solutions alone are not enough. Political collaboration, regional unity, and a cultural embrace of sustainability will be key. This includes cutting down reliance on foreign aid, supporting homegrown businesses, and adopting everyday circular practices such as community composting, repair workshops, and reuse markets. From Nairobi to Accra to Cape Town, cities across the continent are beginning to experiment with these ideas, showing that Africa is not just catching up—it’s shaping its own path.

EU Green Week 2025 was more than a European conference; it was a global signal. The circular economy is not a regional agenda; it’s a shared blueprint for climate resilience, economic sovereignty, and inclusive growth. As African states align with circular principles, rethinking, reusing, recycling, and replenishing, they can reposition themselves not just as resource providers but as value creators and innovators on the global stage. The future of circularity is collaborative, and its success will depend on how we work together to make it real.