Finland to organise circular economy roadshows across major Indian cities in 2026, coinciding with India’s hosting of the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) in October 2026.

About Circular Economy

• A Circular Economy is an economic model that aims to minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency by keeping products, materials, and resources in use for as long as possible.
• It replaces the traditional linear economy (take–make–dispose) with a regenerative system.
• Core Principles: 
• • Design Out Waste: Products are designed to reduce waste, pollution, and environmental harm.
  • Keep Materials in Use: Reuse, repair, refurbish, remanufacture, and recycle materials to extend their life cycle.
  • Regenerate Natural Systems: Restore ecosystems through sustainable extraction, composting, and renewable energy use.

Benefits of the Circular Economy

• Environmental Benefits
  • Reduced Natural Resource Extraction: Extending the lifespan of products helps conserve finite natural resources. (SDG 12)
  • Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Circular practices decrease carbon emissions and support global climate commitments. 
  • Minimised Waste Generation: Reuse and recycling reduce the volume of waste ending up in landfills and the environment. 
• Economic Benefits:
  • Cost Efficiency: Optimised use of materials and energy leads to savings for both producers and consumers.
  • Employment Generation: Activities such as repair, refurbishing, recycling, and remanufacturing create new job opportunities.
  • Diversified Markets: Innovative models like leasing, sharing, and product-as-a-service create fresh avenues for business growth.
• Social Benefits
  • Greater Consumer Options: Consumers can access refurbished or rented products at lower costs, increasing affordability.
  • Improved Quality of Life: Reduced pollution and better waste management contribute to healthier living environments.
  • Stronger Community Engagement: Local repair and reuse initiatives encourage community participation and shared responsibility.

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About World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF)

• Global Platform: The World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) serves as a major international platform that brings together governments, businesses, civil society organisations, academic institutions, and experts to accelerate the global shift toward a circular economy.
• Leadership: WCEF is a global initiative led by Finland and organised by the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra.
• Historical Background: The first edition of the World Circular Economy Forum was held in 2017 in Helsinki 

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