Abstract Description: The regulatory landscape for the circular economy (CE) is evolving rapidly, as governments worldwide introduce policies and frameworks aimed at minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency. This shift has substantial implications for value chains, as companies must adapt to new standards that emphasize extended producer responsibility (EPR) and circularity principles of circular design that leading to the increased product durability and higher rates of: Reuse, Repair, Refurbishing, Remanufacture, Repurposing and Recycling. Regulatory initiatives and regulations, such as the European Union's Circular Economy Action Plan and Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulations (ESPR), are setting benchmarks for industries globally, urging them to integrate circular practices across product life cycles.
Compliance with these regulations necessitates changes across the entire product design, manufacturing process and value chain, from sustainable sourcing and design to recycling and end-of-life management. Companies may face increased costs for adapting production processes or setting up systems to track and report on product lifecycles.
This presentation explores the landscape of the Circular Economy regulations with a concentration in European Union and United States. This presentation also examines how regulatory frameworks impact the adoption of CE practices, focusing on the strategic adjustments required within the life cycle of the product and value chains. By analyzing policy-driven shifts, the presentation highlights how companies can leverage regulatory changes to innovate sustainably, creating value while meeting environmental obligations.