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New White Paper: Circular Economy

This white paper has the purpose of contributing to the common understanding of the circular economy concept and, through the use of practical examples, illustrate how Danish companies are providing solutions that help progress the transition towards a circular economy.

Circular economies are high on the international political agenda. However, we are only at the beginning of the journey towards becoming a circular economy. Public and private cooperation is crucial to convert challenges into opportunities on a national, regional and global level.

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Danish companies are already moving towards adaptation of more circular business models, because it has proven to be a sound business strategy that facilitates access to new markets, drive innovative solutions and saves production costs, underlining the fact that circular economies are highly business driven.

Throughout this white paper, specific company examples will be used to exemplify and show how new, innovative business models can benefit the environment, climate and economy.

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We hope that this white paper will inspire others to progress the transition towards a circular economy.


Click here to download the white paper: Circular Economy

Launched by Danish Minister for Envionment and Food
The white paper was launched today by the Danish Minister for Environment and Food, Esben Lunde Larsen, at the conference 'Danish Pioneers of Sustainability' hosted by the Conferederation of Danish Industry.

Here, the Minister adressed how the circular economy and new innovative business models can contribute to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.  

 Inside this white paper

Chapters 1, 2 and 3 start by looking at the concept of the circular economy and new types of business models, before diving deeper into how the design phase of products can provide circular economy solutions.

For the materials that cannot be reused, high quality recycling can transform these materials into valuable secondary raw materials – this is looked at in chapter 4.

Chapter 5 looks at resource efficiency and partnership between different sectors. Chapters 6 and 7 have a sectoral focus on the bio and construction industries, and chapter 8 explores the potential of the circular economy.

- Related news: Recycling is a hit with the business community

The white paper has been produced in collaboration with the Danish Ministry of Environment and Food, DAKOFA, the Confederation of Danish Industry, the Danish Agriculture & Food Council and the Danish Ministry of Business and Growth.

The following companies have contributed with cases to the white paper: Carlsberg Group, Danish Crown, GoMore, Grundfos, Kalundborg Symbiosis, KMC, Rebrick, Re-Match, RGS90, VIGGA, 3XN Architects and GXN Innovation.

White paper chapters

1. From linear to a circular economy: Transforming our society towards a more sustainable path.
2. Designing products for the circular economy: Circular economy principles at the heart of the companies’ design processes.
3. Circular consumption through innovative business models: New circular economy business models can promote more sustainable production and consumption.
4. Looping resources: In a circular economy, waste is a resource.
5. Resource-efficient production: Resource efficiency and industrial symbiosis contribute to the circular economy.
6. Turning biological side streams into value: Bio-products from agriculture possess a great potential for recirculation.
7. Building circular: Realising the enormous potential of a circular economy in the built environment.
8. Unleashing the potential of circular economy: The circular economy is here to stay – and Danish companies can help accelerate the transition. 

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