The All-Party Parliamentary Sustainable Resource Group (APSRG) recently held a policy discussion in Parliament to explore the systematic changes needed to establish circularity across sectors, supply chains, and society. 

As the UK seeks to achieve its net zero and resource efficiency goals, participants gathered to consider how circular economy principles can be embedded into mainstream economic, industrial, and environmental policy. 

Chaired by Tristan Osborne MP, the session brought together stakeholders from across government, industry, and research to examine how policymakers can establish a joined-up approach to circularity that links industrial strategy, skills, planning and procurement. 

Across a lively and wide-ranging discussion, participants highlighted: 

• Circularity isn't just about waste - it's about economic resilience, skills, and competitiveness.
• Stronger fiscal and regulatory levers are essential to level the playing field for reuse, repair, and remanufacturing.
• Embedding circular thinking in education and skills will equip the next generation to build a more resource-efficient economy.
• Local authorities and SMEs have a pivotal role to play through procurement, innovation, and community engagement.
• Clear, trusted standards, and certification are vital to ensure quality, safety, and consumer confidence in reused and remanufactured goods. 

The roundtable featured insightful contributions from Baroness Sue Garden, Dr Adam Reed MBE (SUEZ), Claire Shrewsbury (WRAP), Cllr Mike Hakata (Haringey Council, North London Waste Authority), and Seb van Dort (BSI).

For more information about the event or work of the APSRG, please contact victoria.zeybrandt [at] policyconnect.org.uk.