Measuring indicators of a circular economy and sustainable development in European Union countries

Abstract

The study analyses the principles and conditions of the functioning of the circular economy and identifies factors contributing to its successful implementation. Specialized general indicators, such as the Sustainable Development Index and the Innovation Index, are used in the study to assess the adoption of innovative and eco-friendly technologies. The data on circular economy development, innovation, and sustainable development in EU countries are analysed. It enables a comparison of their development levels and circular economy implementation. The research findings demonstrate that countries actively implementing environmental requirements and standards in social production, such as Sweden and Finland, or economically advanced countries like France, Germany, and the Netherlands, have the highest adoption of the circular economy. This information can be valuable for identifying leaders in circular practice implementation and potentially developing countries in this direction. The research can also serve as a basis for further enhancing the methodology of monitoring indicators of sustainable development, circular economy, and innovation in European Union countries.