Circular economy versus linear economy. Regulatory proposals in Spain and France regarding the use of packaging and the information provided to the consumer on the environmental qualities of products

Abstract

An economic system based on the production of goods and services under the guidelines of extracting, producing, buying, using and throwing away leads to an intensive use of natural resources, as well as a high pressure on the environment with negative impacts due to the big generation of waste, greenhouse gases, soil and water pollution, etc. This linear model is aggravated in turn with fast fashion consumption habits that do not exhaust the useful life cycle of the products (as clothing or electronic devices).

To correct this situation, the circular economy aims to promote a new model of production and consumption in which the value of resources, materials and products is maintained in the economy for as long as possible, reducing waste. The transition requires redesigns of products and production processes linked to waste prevention and preparation for reuse and recycling, as well as labelling systems capable of demonstrating the environmental footprint. The information provided to the consumer will be essential in supporting the circular economy model.

But, in addition to approaching the theoretical framework, it´s important to know what strategies and concrete measures Spain and other countries such as France intend to implement to achieve a more sustainable and resource-efficient economy; to establish environmental improvement in the design of products and services in order to reduce waste; and to provide all that information clearly and efficiently to the consumer.