Specific objective vi. Promoting the transition to a circular economy and resource efficient economy

Key questions for analysing the environmental impact on efficient use of resources, waste production, recycling and a circular economy

  • Does the policy affect the production of waste or how waste is treated, disposed of, or recycled?
  • Does the policy lead to verifiable additional sustainable production and consumption?
  • Does the policy change the relative prices of environmentally (un)friendly products?
  • Does the policy promote or restrict environmentally (un)friendly goods and services?

Gender considerations

Gender dynamics can influence the way in which resources are used and waste is managed. Women’s and men’s distinct roles and responsibilities within societies, communities and households can affect patterns of resource consumption and waste production. Women and groups in situations of vulnerability are often over-represented in informal sectors – and waste management is no exception, including in Europe.[1]

The circular economy offers an alternative economic model changing current production and consumption patterns, to create more sustainable, comprehensive and just systemic solutions.[2] Women tend to be more represented in lower-value, informal, and end-of-pipe activities within the circular economy, such as recycling and waste management.[3] Their involvement in higher value-added circular activities, which often involve advanced technologies, is comparatively lower.[4] Improving women’s participation in decision-making could boost circular economy advancements and the transition to more sustainable practices.

  • Is consideration given to the specific waste production patterns of women and men?
  • Does the intervention recognise and account for the different roles and responsibilities of women and men in waste production and management, and recycling?
  • Does the policy provide adequate analysis of informal waste management? Does it recognise the contributions and rights of women and men engaged in the informal waste picking and recycling sectors?
  • Is the intersection of gender with other factors and conditions (migrant background, disability, socioeconomic disadvantage, etc.) considered?
  • Are gender disparities in entrepreneurship, leadership, and access to resources within the green and circular economy considered?
  • Does the policy encourage the inclusion of women-owned businesses in green procurement and supply chains? Does it promote gender-responsive criteria and considerations in public and private sector procurement processes to foster women’s participation in green business opportunities?