In light of the European Commission’s new Circular Economy Action Plan, the EIB, as the EU bank, is supporting the transition to a CE, particularly in the EU but also in other parts of the world.

The EIB has a long track record of lending to projects focusing on recycling and the recovery of waste and by-products in various sectors. They aim to increase lending to innovative CE projects aimed at systematically designing out waste, extending the life of assets and closing material loops. The EIB also offers CE advisory services and is active in networking, sharing of best practices, connecting stakeholders and facilitating access to finance for CE projects.

The guide aims to:
 

1. promote a common understanding of CE as well as the challenges and opportunities among financial and project partners;
2. raise awareness about circular solutions among project promoters and other stakeholders;
3. facilitate and harmonise due diligence and reporting related to CE projects with financial and project partners;
4. outline the EIB’s vision to support CE.

The guide is a living document that will be updated in response to CE needs, opportunities and risks, and growing experience with the appraisal and financing of CE projects.

The EIB Circular Economy Guide will be updated as the understanding of the needs, opportunities and risks evolves. This can be interesting for cities and regions that are developing their Circular Systemic Solutions and would like to know more about the financing and advisory services of the EIB in the area of CE.