On 2 July 2014, the European Commission published its Communication on resource efficiency Towards a circular economy: a zero waste programme for Europe. In this context, Cerame-Unie would like to present its views on the circular economy package.

In our paper, we stress that resource efficiency requires a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach that takes into account all stages of the product, including its durability, lifespan and reduction of resource consumption over the use phase. The paper also highlights that the social and economic aspects of sustainability should always be considered in EU legislation.

To reach a circular economy in Europe, adequate access to raw materials as well as separation and processing of waste and a well-functioning market for secondary raw materials are needed. At the end of the paper, some best practice examples taking place in the ceramic industry are presented.